Baranga-two

City Councillor Marcelle Hoff has questioned why Lend Lease is holding its own Barangaroo community forums.

A forum invitation was sent to residents of Jacksons Landing from Lend Lease directly, with its own branding on the letter and no mention of the Barangaroo Delivery Authority (BDA).

“The forum is an opportunity for you to learn more about Barangaroo South, the planning process, and ask questions. It’s also an opportunity for us to receive feedback from you in regards to our proposals,” the letter says.

Cr Hoff questioned if Lend Lease was acting on behalf of the Barangaroo Development Authority.

“Is this briefing to the residents of Jackson’s Landing part of the BDA community consultation process?” she asked.

“[And] if it’s not part of the community consultation, then does this mean that Lend Lease are presenting what essentially is a fait accompli?”

A spokesperson for Lend Lease confirmed the company was running its own forums, but said it was doing so with “the blessing” of the Barangaroo Delivery Authority.

“We’re working with the BDA in some instances and also running our own [consultations],” the spokesperson said.

“We also plan to meet with residents in Walsh Bay, Pyrmont, Millers Point and – again – at Jacksons Landing in the coming weeks.

“At the forums, we are asking the community for its feedback on Lend Lease’s proposals for Barangaroo South.”

The spokesperson added that the design for the precinct was still to be finalised, and would take into consideration a variety of views from the community.

“Lend Lease’s aim is to reflect a balanced response to feedback from the community in regards to proposals for Barangaroo South,” the spokesperson said.

“For example, some members of the community have voiced concerns about the proposed public pier and the landmark building on that pier. At the same time, we have received praise from other members of the community who support an iconic building on such a pier.”

A spokesperson for the BDA said “Lend Lease … needs to inform the community about their proposal and respond to concerns from the community, before they submit their planning application.

“The Barangaroo Delivery Authority welcomes the approach to community engagement from Lend Lease.”