Results

The following is a condensed summary of the findings of the study of public space in Barangaroo.

Governance and Control

Barangaroo’s redevelopment reflects Sydney’s long-term planning trends, where state-led governance has entrenched corporate influence in urban space management. The state government dominated decision-making from design to ongoing management via Placemaking NSW, prioritising economic value over public interest. This consolidation of power has led to restrictive policies that limit protest rights and marginalise vulnerable groups, reinforcing a quasi-privatised governance model seen since Darling Harbour’s redevelopment.

Public Space: Quality and Accessibility

While Barangaroo maintains its public space footprint, increased commercial development has strained its amenities. The design prioritizes aesthetic appeal and economic viability, limiting inclusivity and co-production by the public. Though Indigenous representation exists in artistic elements, community participation remains limited, reflecting a broader trend of symbolic inclusion rather than meaningful engagement.

Urban Citizenship and Rights to the City

Barangaroo’s redevelopment raises the question: Who is the space for? The emphasis on a global financial hub over a community-centred precinct has resulted in controlled, heavily policed spaces that limit accessibility and human rights. Sydney’s public space contradictions—where vagrancy is criminalised while curated events market inclusivity—illustrate broader urban citizenship struggles. Increasing managerial governance and private-sector influence restrict public agency, challenging whether truly public space can exist within a neoliberal urban framework.

Limitations and Future Considerations

The study faced barriers to government engagement, limiting insights into decision-making. Additionally, underrepresentation of marginalized groups underscores gaps in public space discourse. Future research should broaden stakeholder engagement, particularly with Indigenous and disadvantaged communities, and extend timelines to assess long-term urban space usage.

The Future of Public Space in Sydney

Barangaroo exemplifies public space commodification, but it also provides lessons for more inclusive planning. Future governance must emphasize public engagement, equitable access, and transparency while addressing global corporate influences. Informal community-driven reclamation efforts could reintroduce fine-grain urbanism, countering exclusionary trends (Bodnar, 2015). As digitisation and virtual spaces evolve, the role of public space will remain a contested issue in urban planning.