Sydney Modern Gallery

As a member of the Foundation and Friends of the Gardens committed to protecting and enhancing our public garden spaces, my concerns about the proposal include:

1. I object to the loss of green space in a densely populated part of Sydney and in a tourism precinct.

2. I object to the size of the footprint of the proposal which is a landgrab.

3. I object to the visual impact of the proposal on the precinct - particularly the vistas down from Art Gallery Road, Mrs Macquaries Road and from Woolloomooloo Gate.

4. I object to the removal of a large number of trees particularly opposite Woolloomooloo Gates on Mrs Macquaries Road to make room for the Pavilion.

5. I object to the building heights of the proposal and the proximity of these buildings to the road.

6. I object to the Seawater Heat Exchange System which would require easements as the ducting and pump chamber cut through Trust land with impacts on Trust land from the pipe trenches.

7. I object to the loss of parking spaces outside the Gallery (owned and controlled by the Trust) because this would cause a significant revenue loss to the Trust when Government funding for the Trust's operations is reducing. Mrs Macquaries Road and Art Gallery Road provide the only vehicular access to Royal Botanic Garden Sydney and a large part of the Domain and are of high importance to the Trust. The plan seeks to transfer ownership and/or control of a very significant part of that road to the Art Gallery. There is no public transport requirement study or plan as part of the proposal.

An unneeded project given the large empty spaces in the

Gallery : also the many displays of modern art which become meaningless very quickly.

More importantly the impact on the visual qualities of the area
dating back to the earliest days.

Perhaps reflecting the ambitions of the director,

As a passionate gardener and professional artist inspired by Nature, I strongly object to the expansion of the AGNSW into the green space of our treasured Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney.
This may seem an ironic objection considering the nature of my profession as a visual artist but, I feel, the most profound inspiration one can be moved to create from is by spending valuable time in Nature itself. To walk the rooms and corridors in the structured confines of an art institution can assist one in the creative process but the true authentic flame of one's creative spirit is ignited in the vast expanse of our Earth's botanic gardens. The Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney is not only an essential green space in the heart of our city, the Gardens invite contemplation, ignite creativity, foster natural history education, and allow our Spirits to heal in their environment of peace and beauty. Amen

I strongly object to the use of public park space for an extension to the Art Gallery for the following reasons:

1. inconsistent with the heritage, natural and public open space values of the Domain.
2. importance of maintaining and enhancing green space recognised in various planning policies particularly in the light of the growth in population
3. The cities cultural attractions need to be spread to where the population lives. The Art Gallery should be making its resources available for art in all its forms to Greater Sydney and to regional centre throughout the State.

Have these plans been widely distributed to all Sydney councils for their comments and suggestions for alternative locations? I have not had anything from my council or my local newspaper.

Has the gallery sent them out to their members' data base?

The gallery is an important state institution why has there not been more publicity?

I HAVE NEVER SUPPORTED THIS DEVELOPMENT AND WO LD LIKE TO ADD MY DISAPPROVAL TO R.B.G.'s LIST OF THOSE AGAINST.
THE WHOLE SCHEME SHOWS A TOTAL LACK OF GOOD WILL TOWARDS THE ORGANISATIONS WHO WILL BE AFFECTED.
I HAVE ALWAYS CONSIDERED THIS UNWELCOME DEVELOPMENT TO REFLECT THE SELF-ENHANCING EGOS EMANATING FROM A.G.N.S.W.
DIANA HEATH

ref the DLC (aca Sydney modern)
I support the concept of the Deconstructed Layer Cake in both concept and design crossing the divide between where we are now and the modern, over there; across the road.

the mission will need greater public ownership and buy-in through identifying with both artistic concept and colloquial identity; I would suggest creating that identity by accepting the DLC as a working title helps get that man in the street interest.

As to detail, the barn concept of creating flexible space as manifest in the Beaubourg (Pompidou Centre, Paris) is to be supported; a pillar free exhibition hall delivers that built environment in spades.

the de facto concept of building on the tank structure below with its 4m. pillar grid reinforces the new on old; flexible upon rigid space concepts.

And thus, the layer cake deconstructs; as it constructs and slips in upon the old.

The vision is born of the Art Gallery; I would love to see it delivered for and by NSW; you can push the green buttons; and enjoy.
jsh

I wish to strongly object to the planned placement of the Sydney City Modern Art Gallery (SSD-6471). The encroachment of the building footprint into the only existing open space linking the Domain parkland with the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens and Mrs Macquarie's Chair is insensitive and contemptuous of the way the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain function. The development will bisect the only piece of land that links the Domain with the Royal Botanic Gardens. Although your own government departments have admitted that Sydney City green space is crucial and under serious threat, it has long been treated as an opportunity for development and this is a crass example. A sensible solution would be to build on the opposite side of the existing Art Gallery, giving more options to connect with the city. An even better but more courageous solution would be for the Sydney City Modern Art Gallery to be built elsewhere so as not to consume even more green space.

I wish to strongly object to the planned placement of the Sydney City Modern Art Gallery (SSD-6471). The encroachment of the building footprint into the only existing open space linking the Domain parkland with the Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens and Mrs Macquarie's Chair is insensitive and contemptuous of the way the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Domain function. The development will bisect the only piece of land that links the Domain with the Royal Botanic Gardens. Although your own government departments have admitted that Sydney City green space is crucial and under serious threat, it has long been treated as an opportunity for development and this is a crass example. A sensible solution would be to build on the opposite side of the existing Art Gallery, giving more options to connect with the city. An even better but more courageous solution would be for the Sydney City Modern Art Gallery to be built elsewhere so as not to consume even more green space.

I object to the current plans for Sydney Modern because of the size and location of the buidings. The character of the site is dependent on the views it provides and the open ground around the existing buildings, consistent with the heritage and collections the current Gallery contains and the artistic milieu it represents. The plans for Sydney Modern would be fine in a more appropriate location, but would bring a jarring note into the area by its juxtaposition with the Botanic Gardens and the walkways along to Mrs Macquarie's Chair.

While fully supporting the art gallery of NSW plans to extend the (underground) viewing and exhibition areas, there are several
critical features of the SSDA that should be revised before approval be granted.

The Art Gallery extensions must be seen in the Historical and
Cultural context.This precinct stretches from St. james Road,
Prince Albert Road, and St. Marys Road, from the Dept. of Lands
building, the Macquarie St. buildings and the Mitchell Library to Mrs Macquaries Chair and the Botanic Gardens, with sandstone
buildings, gates, walls and railings - including the present Art
Gallery.
The present design clashes with this - glass and commercial is not compatible, and is more appropriate to a shopping complex.
The "flexible entry zone plaza space" and entry pavilion are
intrusive; the current grass and mature trees should be retained.

CRITICALLY: the acquisition/alienation of green space and the
current treeline is WRONG.
This green space is much loved and used, by pedestrians, strollers, and joggers; it has shaded areas and benches; it allows
picnicking, resting, and exercising.
It must be preserved.

The present design constrains the foot and vehicular approaches
to the Botanic Gardens, and to Mrs Macquaries Chair, which are
important to citizens and visitors alike.
A roundabout outside the Woolloomooloo Gate, with the removal
of a section of the nearer elevated grassed and treed area of Mrs Macquaries Chair is not acceptable.
I appreciate that details of the public bus stop (441) , pick-up and set-down and turning arrangements, are not included in the SSDA, nor adjustments for loss of parking nfees, and space. These are important.

The descending structures as seen from Woolloomooloo and the
water, with persons enjoying the view and other activities, are not
preferable to the present grass, pathways and foliage. They are
more in keeping with a seaside resort.

The Standing of the Art Gallery of NSW is of course high. It should not be sullied by an aura and aspects of "land grab" and
commercial greed.

The present design could be constructively reviewed and revised.

This is my submission.
With respect.

a.k. lethlean, md, fracp
neurologist, retired.
citizen, visitor, and neighbour

I believe that a satellite museum of AGNSW should be constructed in Western Sydney. Since the AGNSW storage is offsite, a program of thematic exhibitions could be mounted so that some of the thousands of quality works that are never or rarely shown could enrich the lives of art lovers who can't visit the Domain site because of work, transport and family commitments.
Louvre Lens is an example of a successful project to revitalise a culturally deprived area by developing a community facility incorporating galleries meeting rooms and educational facilities.
It is also an intelligent decentralisation project that builds family and community loyalty in a culturally diverse community.
Such a facility in Western Sydney could be shared between the major museums so extraordinary cultural experiences could result.
Who knows what amazing talent and creative energy could emerge from the countless young people in Western Sydney who may never have visited museums because travel by road or public transport to Sydney city is time consuming, expensive and potentially dangerous. Let's facilitate a fairer and cultural enhanced Western Sydney in the interest of social harmony.

I am deeply disturbed by the SSDA application to expand the AGNSW on to land which forms part of the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust. It is essential that central Sydney green space is preserved intact.

As a member of the Art Gallery Society of NSW, I am fully aware of the need for expanded exhibition space and consider that underground expansion of the gallery, either to the south or to the west, would allow space for large exhibitions, as well as providing an easily regulated microclimate for works of art (MONA in Hobart is an example of how this can be successfully achieved).

Quite apart from the loss of green space and trees (many of
which are native), the interference with the aesthetic integrity of the area would be major. The ridge of land, running from the Lands building, past the AGNSW and the Woolloomooloo gates, and on to Mrs. Macquarie's Chair must be one of the finest examples of preserved open space in any modern city. The proposed plaza and entrance to Sydney Modern would be close to and also tower over Art Gallery road, destroying the integrity of the ridge and the current views over Woolloomooloo Bay.
The plan for the storage tanks has some merit, but involves a high building being erected over the southern portion of the tanks
and rising steeply above Lincoln Crescent. This would further diminish the current views of green space from the Bay.

In conclusion, the proposed development appears to be more about providing views for patrons than the appropriate display of works of art. The green space of Sydney and this wonderful historical precinct must be preserved intact for all to enjoy.

I object to the loss of any remaining green space in the city largely because once gone it can never be regained. Laudable as the development of the Gallery may be I believe an alternative should be sought, the priority being the preservation of whatever green spots remain in the CBD

I object to the loss of any remaining green space in the city largely because once gone it can never be regained. Laudable as the development of the Gallery may be I believe an alternative should be sought, the priority being the preservation of whatever green spots remain in the CBD

Removing trees and lawn for more buildings in Sydney is simply ridiculous, this is also an historical area and should be left open for everyone to enjoy. I am aware of a number of bird nests and tree hollows which will have to be removed to allow construction. Presently we are very lucky to have wild parrots nesting so close to a large city, we should be adding to this habitat NOT destroying it. Many people from the Potts Point/Kings Cross area use the land where this proposed project is to be placed as a walking thoroughfare to a from work into the city and 'meandering pathway' proposed to be put in its place is simply too small to allow the numbers of people that currently use it, to get through. I suspect the numbers of people will also increase in future and this has not been accounted for.

I think it is unthinkable to remove green space used by everyone at any hour, for the use of a few members of an organisation which has limited access, and limited opening hours. There is no reason that several floors of a building in the CBD would not be more suitable for security purposes than the proposed site.

This will take away a significant walking and cycling thoroughfare to the city. It is one of the few pleasant green spaces one can commute through.

The loss of the trees will be catastrophic. And to what end, for the Art Gallery to capture the view for itself when surely its sole interest should be making you look at what is on its walls.
One cannot get around everything that is on display at the AG in one day anyway. So why is it important it have more works hung.

This is a nasty land & view grab when the Gallery should be opening a branch gallery further west if it has too many works it can't hang.

OBJECTION

I object very strongly to the acquisition of public open space for the purposes of ANY structures, especially large buildings such as this.
The city needs its green lungs and its people need the spiritual refreshment of being able to relax in the green space.
Our city founders had the vision to set aside these spaces and they should not be usurped for special interest amenities.

Without a doubt we need a new modern Art Gallery to attract the blockbuster exhibitions to Sydney. But are we choosing the right location and sufficiently considered management issues? Is it possible to have the issues of land management in respect of the Botanic gardens resolved and have a `Win Win Situation between the RBG and the Friends of the Botanic Gardens for this significant development? I understand the RBG own a considerable area of the footprint upon which the new Gallery will be constructed. I believed it is essential to consider a compromise that can be agreed to between the Friends of the Botanic gardens and others who are strongly opposing this facility as presented?
I spoke at length with the Project Director on Saturday 2nd December and gained a better insight into the development. My main concerns are that there will be much more traffic attracted to the area and will converge into the same existing very busy single road way. It is clear some thought has been given to traffic flows and disabled access to the facility, however the turning circle right at the main entrance to the Botanic Gardens will not compliment the main entry to the Gardens and cause a blockage for traffic in an already busy area. I believe the traffic should continue to do the loop of Mrs Macquarie's chair. As far as I could see there would be a clash of buses and drop off locations and instead of making access easier to the Gardens and the new Sydney Modern the traffic and pedestrian safety issues would be moved from the existing very busy pedestrian crossing, in front of the existing Gallery, further up towards the Woolloomooloo gate. There are many instances where a disabled person cannot be left by the roadside while a car is being parked. I suggest a lot more thought is given to the traffic issues and widening the access road. The greater utilization of the two access areas from the Domain carpark could be enhanced by constructing a covered pedestrian walkway from the one nearest the existing Gallery. This could draw considerable Sydney resident traffic away from the front entry and could perhaps encourage patrons to use the Domain rather than utilizing the Mrs Macquarie's Chair road.
I noted that one of the reasons for building the new Sydney Modern near the NSW Art Gallery was economies of scale which would facilitate the utilizing staff and administrative services. I cannot see the reasoning for not having a link. I think it would be difficult to make the concept work without a link. I suggest a link is formed which includes 2 restaurants and possibly some meeting and Staff room at the curve of the garden space between the two Galleries. This would could offer prime views and really bring the two buildings and staff together. The and staff space would be merged to facilitate interaction between the two facilities. The vacated space could be used for more exhibition or teaching space. The space created by swapping new restaurants and staff space from of the new building could compensate for the new building space and allow a wider road to take the coaches and more traffic. The building being constructed without a link is a missed opportunity. Unless the facility is joined there will be `a them and us `culture created from day one.
I seem to remember in an early Masterplan a proposal was to have a Ferry deliver patrons to the RBG precinct. I believe the Electricity sub power station should be released and swapped for the land being used for the development and returned to the RBG. This would allow some replacement of trees and allow some green space to compensate for the new building structures. Until I went to a presentation I was not aware of the economies of scale of utilizing some of the admin and Staff facilities. By moving the facility to Barangaroo, a relatively greenfield site, this would move visitors to another area of Sydney but would cost more to run. The issue of the Power house being used for the new gallery I felt was not addressed sufficiently well in the documents and should be further explored before it is too late. We need to keep the Power House Museum for both tourist and the Sydney residents. I have read, it has been suggested, the building be built on the rear and the football ground side. I understand why this is difficult as the City schools and the locals uses this area, and should this be the area for the new facility would create more discourse and move one set of issues to other interest groups.
I believe that there should be more tree planting on the new and existing open space and the utilization of the substation space. This should not be sold and should be swapped for gardens space used in the development this would allow a pathway to be constructed from the Ferry to the RBG front gate and the new Sydney modern as well as landscaping.
I do hope my comments are taken on board especially the issues of staff management and working as one and ensuring as much green space remains under the management of the RBG. Should there be a position for a community member on a planning panel I would jump at the chance.
Presented by Sandy Hudspith [email protected]
0412267744