22-26 Playfair Street, the Rocks Nsw Entry Hall Upgrade

22-26 PLAYFAIR STREET, THE ROCKS NSW ENTRY HALL UPGRADE

landscape character and visual impact assessment THIS REPORT HAS BEEN PREPARED for

Level 3, Studio 3 “The Cooperage” 56 Bowman Street PYRMONT NSW 2009 t. +61 29571 7900 f. +61 29571 7600 email: [email protected]

Contact: Miguel Wustemann

Issue Date of Issue Submission Author Review Comments A 19.05.2017 Draft Report MW JvG B 25.05.2017 Final Report MW JvG

Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW . Entry Hall Upgrade

TABLE OF CONTENTS

01 INTRODUCTION 1 BACKGROUND 1 THE PROJECT 2 PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT 7 METHODOLOGY 7

02 CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS 8 LANDSCAPE CONTEXT 8 BUILT FORM CHARACTER 10 NETWORK CONTEXT 11 LAND USE 11 HISTORY 12

03 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT ASSESSMENT 16 PLAYAIR STREET PRECINCT 16 HARRINGTON STREET 17

04 VISUAL IMPACT 18 VISUAL IMPACT ANALYSIS 18

05 CONCLUSION 28 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

01 INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND The overarching objective of the upgrade to the entrance is to The Property NSW, formerly Sydney Harbour Foreshore provide improved disabled access. The current access leads to Authority proposes to upgrade the current access to the Rocks a staircase from where the lower and upper level of the building Centre, a retail building located in the Rocks, Sydney. The can be reached (see figure 1.2). building is located on the corner of Argyle and Playfair Streets and is also known as “Penrhyn House”. It should be noted that this assessment does not consider any alternative design options and is based on the design drawings The upgrade would involve the removal of the existing glazed prepared by Welsh + Major Architects dated May 2017. entrance, off Playfair Street (see figure 1.1) to replace it with a new glazed entrance structure as part of a number of building Alternative options were considered during the concept design works to facilitate the building’s ongoing commercial and retail development phase of the project and the proposed design use for the future. has been identified as the most practical solution with the least impacts to the heritage fabric, and from considering circulation, sightlines, height clearances and construction feasibility.

Figure 1.1 Existing entrance off Playfair Street. Figure 1.2 View looking from the entrance to the interior of the building.

1 THE PROJECT

Key features of the proposal include: Figures 1.3 and 1.4 illustrate the existing and proposed alterations. The drawings illustrated in figures 1.5 to 1.9 show • Removal of the existing entrance key aspects of the proposed design. It should be noted, that • Provision of the following facilities: the selection of material and finishes is similar in character to the existing facility and that the bulk of the proposed entry -- new lift to access Level 1 would also be similar. -- exposed steel structure -- glazed entrance It should be noted that the roof to the proposed structure -- steel awning is glazed which would allow views through to the adjacent building behind and the sky, creating a lighter structure -- steel framed glazed roof compared the existing solid roof. -- steel bridge structure to link lift with upper storey -- new stone paving on ground floor

Existing Entry StructureFigureExisting Entry 1.3 Structure View of the existing situation along Playfair Street. FigureVisualizuation 1.4 Proposal IndicativeVisualizuation Entry Structurephotomontage Proposal Entry Structure prepared by Welsh + Major Architects illustrating the proposal.

2 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment DRAFTDRAFT May 2017 FOR REVIEW FOR REVIEW DATE 11.05.17 DATE 11.05.17 Project Ref: Project Ref: 1607 1607 The Rocks TheCentre Rocks Entry Centre Access Entry Access View Analysis ViewDate: Analysis11.05.17 Date: 11.05.17 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

Ex. Sandstone dish drain Remove ex. paving and to be protected. slab for new entry to line

con of proposed awning. Ex. tree to be retained . and protected. ex

Existing entry structure to be demolished shown dashed in red. Carefully ex. remove fixings into tree Existing entry structure to be retained structures. demolished shown dashed in red. Carefully remove embedded fixings into exisaitng heritage structure. Area for lift pit excavation shown hatched. Methodology to be Allow to take up and approved Archaeology Director relay ex. paving to prior to excavation. Ensure adjusted levels. Entry adjacent structure is not Remove exisitng FFL 11.83 undemined. downpipe. Refer to sp new box gutter Remove exisitng metal capping. details. Ex. partial nib of masonry wall dp to be carefully demolished for ex. dp ex. dp ex. dp ex. w ex. w Ex. partial nib of new access bridge above. ex. dp masonry wall to be ex. tb Cut finish to new edge. Retain ex. w ex. w demolished for new bricks for re use or delivery to ex. tb access bridge. principal for future use. 480 cos Remove exisitng ex. stair tactile indicators to Remove exisitng tactile ex. stair 12 indicators to allow allow re-finishing of ex. stair 11 12 13 re-finishing of existing floor. 11 existing floor. 10 Remove exisitng glass enclosure. 13 14 10 9 14 15 9 arcade 8 15 or 8 7 16 7 services 6 tenancies . 17 cupboard 6 retail ex 5 18 Existing mechanical 5 ductwork to be Existing 4 19 4 relocated outside of 3 20 internal entry area. 3 2 21 Refer mech. 2 engineer’s 1 22 1 doccumentation. 23 Retain and protect exisitng 24 tactile indicators Remove exisitng line of timber beam over tactile indicators to allow re-finishing of existing floor.

Ex. FFL 14.13 Remove ex. glass EXISTING ARCADE enclosure and doors.

Figure1 1.5Ground Ground Floor Demolition floor Plandemolition plan prepared by Welsh + Major Architects showing 1 First Floor Demolition Plan the extent- of the proposed works. - Demolition Legend

Ex. paving to be lifted, regraded and relaid to adjust levels. Demolition Notes 1. Demolition - Remove only items as shown. if in doubt refer to Heritage Architect's advice. Existing paving slab to be removed. 2. Make good existing wall fabric after demolition. Remove any ferrous fixings from masonry and joints. Consult with heritage Architect on site form instructions and methodologies for make good works. Area for lift pit excavation. 3. Extended opening to brickwork:leave full of half bricks at new edge. salvage existing bricks for delivery to principal. 4. Provide temporary support to new openings as Structure/fabric to be demolished. required.

con of proposed awning. dp downpipe sp stone pavers . For State Significant Development Application mail@welshmajor .com Ex. tree to be retained ex existing tb timber boards New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 Drawing Title Drawing. No. ex NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 and protected. fc fibre cement tf timber floor Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Ground + First Floor Demolition Plan SSDA 101 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com fw floor waste w window 0 1 2 3 4 5 6m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: Existing entry structure to 1:100 at A3 May 2017 DRW/AS CM - be demolished shown dashed in red. Carefully ex. remove fixings into tree Existing entry structure to be retained structures. demolished shown dashed in red. Carefully remove embedded fixings into exisaitng heritage structure. Area for lift pit excavation shown hatched. Methodology to be Allow to take up and approved Archaeology Director relay ex. paving to prior to excavation. Ensure adjusted levels. Entry adjacent structure is not Remove exisitng FFL 11.83 undemined. downpipe. Refer to sp new box gutter Remove exisitng metal capping. details. Ex. partial nib of masonry wall dp to be carefully demolished for ex. dp ex. dp ex. dp ex. w ex. w Ex. partial nib of new access bridge above. ex. dp masonry wall to be ex. tb Cut finish to new edge. Retain ex. w ex. w demolished for new bricks for re use or delivery to ex. tb access bridge. principal for future use. 480 cos Remove exisitng ex. stair tactile indicators to Remove exisitng tactile ex. stair 12 indicators to allow allow re-finishing of ex. stair 11 12 13 re-finishing of existing floor. 11 existing floor. 10 Remove exisitng glass enclosure. 13 14 10 9 14 15 9 arcade 8 15 or 8 7 16 7 services 6 tenancies . 17 cupboard 6 retail ex 5 18 Existing mechanical 5 ductwork to be Existing 4 19 4 relocated outside of 3 20 internal entry area. 3 2 21 Refer mech. 2 engineer’s 1 22 1 doccumentation. 23 Retain and protect exisitng 24 tactile indicators Remove exisitng line of timber beam over tactile indicators to allow re-finishing of existing floor.

Ex. FFL 14.13 Remove ex. glass EXISTING ARCADE enclosure and doors.

1 Ground Floor Demolition Plan 1 First Floor Demolition Plan - - Demolition Legend

Note: Issue / Amendments: Date: Legend: Project Project Ref. No. To be read in conjunction with other consultant's drawings. Do not scale off Figure 1.6 First floor demolition plan prepared by Welsh + Major Architects showing the drawings. Verify dimensions on site before work commences. Any discrepancies - ISSUED FOR SSDA 09/05/2017 bt bitumen mr metal roofing Line of structure are to be reported to the architect immediately. The Building Code of Australia, c column pb plasterboard over / under relevant Australian Standards and Authorities are to be complied with. con concrete pv paving The Rocks Centre cm copper mesh s steel To be demolished N extent of the proposed works. Cnr Argyle + Playfair st, The Rocks, NSW 2000 1607 ct ceramic tiles sk sink Level 4, 69 Reservoir St, Surry Hills d door sm steel mesh Existing structure New South Wales Australia 2010 For State Significant Development Application dp downpipe sp stone pavers mail@welshmajor .com ex existing tb timber boards New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 Drawing Title Drawing. No. NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 fc fibre cement tf timber floor Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Ground + First Floor Demolition Plan SSDA 101 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com fw floor waste w window 0 1 2 3 4 5 6m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: 1:100 at A3 May 2017 DRW/AS CM -

3 CL CL GENERAL NOTES: 192 2190 2240 ~400 STEEL STRUCTURE c c cos - All gaps between exisitng First Floor timber floor boards and existing timber structure to be filled with suitible smoke rated 50 2250 50 200 LIFT SHAFT sealant. Confirm extend with Architect and Pincipal on site prior c LIFT PIT c min to commencement of works. Refer to Specification.

- Lift and bridge set out to be confirmed prior to commencement 1 2 3 of construction once contrctor is appointed. Line of awning over 501 501 501 shown dotted.

STRUCTURE sp2 .82

11 D RL STEEL 01 gd Continuous brickslot drain between gd c st c st c .83

192 threshold and border paving. Refer SHAFT

to hydraulic engineer’s spec. 11 LIFT RL Protect exisitng tree. c 50 New threshold paving under awning. Refer to spec. D 600 02 1530

Line of sliding door pelmet over.

PIT Lift OPENING 900 2000

L c c C

LIFT Stand alone door control post with push to open and lock to either side of st

CLEAR sliding door. Refer to detail and spec. Entry FFL 11.83

600 sp1 1560 c 50 Retain existing stormwater pits 4

501 New stone paving to spec. Steel blade columns with glazing flanges. Refer to sim. .72 .83 1090 details and structural c L c

C engineer’s spec. 11 11 Steel framed glazed lift shaft with removable mesh cladding

RL RL dp Brickslot drain access unit. panels. Refer to details. cos

~400 dp ex. dp ex. dp

ex. w ex. w

ex tm. 12 11 13 ex tm. 10 14 9 15 Line of new walkway bridge over. 8 cupboard 7 arcade or

services 6 tenancies .

retail ex 5 existing to

proposed 4 work No 3

2 ex tm. 1

ex tgsi

line of timber beam over 1 WORK IN SHADED AREA Ground Floor Plan EXISITNG ARCADE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE SECTION 60 APPLICATION - Ex. FFL

Note: Issue / Amendments: Date: Legend: Project Project Ref. No. To be read in conjunction with other consultant's drawings. Do not scale off drawings. Verify dimensions on site before work commences. Any discrepancies - ISSUED FOR SSDA 09/05/2017 bt bitumen mr metal roofing Line of structure are to be reported to the architect immediately. The Building Code of Australia, c column pb plasterboard over / under relevant Australian Standards and Authorities are to be complied with. con concrete pv paving The Rocks Centre cm copper mesh s steel To be demolished Figure 1.7 Proposed ground floor plan prepared by WelshN + Major Architects. Cnr Argyle + Playfair st, The Rocks, NSW 2000 1607 ct ceramic tiles sk sink Level 4, 69 Reservoir St, Surry Hills d door sm steel mesh Existing structure New South Wales Australia 2010 For State Significant Development Application dp downpipe sp stone pavers mail@welshmajor .com ex existing tb timber boards New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 Drawing Title Drawing. No. NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 fc fibre cement tf timber floor Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Ground Floor Plan SSDA 102 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com fw floor waste w window 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: 1:50 at A3 May 2017 DRW/AS CM -

4 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

ex. fb

Steel blade columns to s extend beyond blazed roof. RL 18.18 Proposed Entry Ridge Level fg fg

Ex. gutter to be retained. Provide spreader into new box gutter. New steel rainwater rwh head and double downpipes s ex. w Steel recess behind double downpipes. Steel framed glazed CL CL entry structure. GENERAL NOTES: 192 2190 2240 ~400 STEEL STRUCTURE c c cos - All gaps between exisitng First Floor timber floor boards and Steel plate awning fixed existing timber structure to be filled with suitible smoke rated 50 2250 50 200 LIFT SHAFT from steel blade columns. sealant. Confirm extend with Architect and Pincipal on site prior c LIFT PIT c min to commencement of works. Refer to Specification.

- Lift and bridge set out to be confirmed prior to commencement 1 2 3 of construction once contrctor is appointed. Line of awning over 501 501 501 fg shown dotted.

STRUCTURE sp2 Existing entry structure to be .82 demolished shown dashed in red.

11 D RL STEEL 01 gd FFL 14.13 Existing First Floor Level Continuous brickslot drain between gd c st c st c .83

192 threshold and border paving. Refer SHAFT

to hydraulic engineer’s spec. 11 LIFT RL

Protect exisitng tree. T c E 50 New threshold paving under E awning. Refer to spec. R

D T 600 S D 02 ex. w Contrast 1530

R 02 I graphic band Line of sliding door pelmet over. A on glazing. F

Y Refer to spec. Steel framed, glazed and copper A L PIT Lift clad lift enclosure visible behind Post mounted P OPENING 900 glazed entry structure.

2000 door controls.

L c c C

LIFT Stand alone door control post with st Refer to push to open and lock to either side of Specification.

CLEAR sliding door. Refer to detail and spec. Entry FFL 11.83 Existing Entry Floor Level FFL 11.83

600 sp1 1560 c 50 Retain existing stormwater pits 4

501 New stone paving to spec. Steel blade columns with glazing flanges. Refer to sim. .72 .83 1090 details and structural c L c

C engineer’s spec. 11 11 Steel framed glazed lift shaft with removable mesh cladding

RL RL dp Brickslot drain access unit. panels. Refer to details. cos

~400 dp ex. dp ex. dp

ex. w ex. w 1 Argyle St Elevation Figure 1.8 Proposed Argyle- Street elevation prepared by Welsh + Major Architects.

Note: Issue / Amendments: Date: Legend: Project Project Ref. No. To be read in conjunction with other consultant's drawings. Do not scale off ex tm. drawings. Verify dimensions on site before work commences. Any discrepancies - ISSUED FOR SSDA 09/05/2017 bt bitumen mm metal mesh Line of structure 12 are to be reported to the architect immediately. The Building Code of Australia, c column mr metal roofing over / under relevant Australian Standards and Authorities are to be complied with. con concrete pb plasterboard The Rocks Centre To be demolished 11 cm copper mesh ply plywood Cnr Argyle + Playfair st, The Rocks, NSW 2000 1607 13 ex tm. ct ceramic tiles pv paving Level 4, 69 Reservoir St, Surry Hills d door s steel Existing structure New South Wales Australia 2010 10 dp downpipe sp stone pavers mail@welshmajor .com For State Significant Development Application ex existing tb timber boards Drawing Title Drawing. No. 14 New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 fc fibre cement tf timber floor 9 Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Argyle St Elevation SSDA 301 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com 15 Line of new walkway bridge over. fw floor waste w window 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: 8 1:50 at A3 May 2017 AS CM

cupboard - 7 arcade or

services 6 tenancies . ex. mr

retail ex 5 existing to

proposed 4 ex. fb work No 3

2 ex tm. 1 ex tgsi s RL 18.18 Proposed Entry Ridge Level ex. gutter fg1 fg1 s ex. tb line of timber beam over ex. fb 1 WORK IN SHADED AREA ex. dp Ground Floor Plan EXISITNG ARCADE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE Existing entry structure to be SECTION 60 APPLICATION demolished shown dashed in red. - Ex. FFL

ex. w Note: Issue / Amendments: Date: Legend: Project Project Ref. No. First floor glazing with To be read in conjunction with other consultant's drawings. Do not scale off coloured LED lighting behind. drawings. Verify dimensions on site before work commences. Any discrepancies - ISSUED FOR SSDA 09/05/2017 bt bitumen mr metal roofing Line of structure are to be reported to the architect immediately. The Building Code of Australia, c column pb plasterboard over / under relevant Australian Standards and Authorities are to be complied with. con concrete pv paving The Rocks Centre Steel mesh lift enclosure cm copper mesh s steel To be demolished behind glazed entry structure. N Cnr Argyle + Playfair st, The Rocks, NSW 2000 1607 ct ceramic tiles sk sink Level 4, 69 Reservoir St, Surry Hills d door sm steel mesh Existing structure New South Wales Australia 2010 For State Significant Development Application dp downpipe sp stone pavers mail@welshmajor .com Steel awning. ex existing tb timber boards New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 Drawing Title Drawing. No. Refer to detail. NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 fc fibre cement tf timber floor Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Ground Floor Plan SSDA 102 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com fw floor waste w window 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: 1:50 at A3 May 2017 DRW/AS CM - Steel framed entry fg1 structure to detail.

FFL 14.13 Existing First Floor Level

D 01 ex. w

ex. con

FFL 11.83 Existing Entry Floor Level

Sliding glass entry door fitted with automatic or fixed open operation. Glazing contrast strip. Refer to spec.

1 Playfair St Elevation Figure 1.9 Proposed Playfair- Street elevation prepared by Welsh + Major Architects.

Note: Issue / Amendments: Date: Legend: Project Project Ref. No. To be read in conjunction with other consultant's drawings. Do not scale off drawings. Verify dimensions on site before work commences. Any discrepancies - ISSUED FOR SSDA 09/05/2017 bt bitumen mm metal mesh Line of structure are to be reported to the architect immediately. The Building Code of Australia, c column mr metal roofing over / under relevant Australian Standards and Authorities are to be complied with. con concrete pb plasterboard The Rocks Centre To be demolished cm copper mesh ply plywood Cnr Argyle + Playfair st, The Rocks, NSW 2000 1607 ct ceramic tiles pv paving Level 4, 69 Reservoir St, Surry Hills 5 d door s steel Existing structure New South Wales Australia 2010 For State Significant Development Application dp downpipe sp stone pavers mail@welshmajor .com ex existing tb timber boards New wall Tel: 02 9699 6066 Drawing Title Drawing. No. NOT FOR CONSTRUCTION exh exhaust td timber deck ABN: 67 612 977 303 fc fibre cement tf timber floor Water service ARB No. 6968 Nom. Arch: D. Welsh Playfair St Elevation SSDA 302 fg fixed glass tm timber www.welshmajor.com fw floor waste w window 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3m Sewer service Scale: Date: Drawn: Checked: Issue: 1:50 at A3 May 2017 AS CM - Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note Guideline for Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment EIA-N04

Figure 1.10 RMS EIA Practice note. Guidelines for Figure 1.11 Guidelines for Landscape and Visual landscape character and visual impact assessment, Impact Assessment, The Landscape Institute, EIA-N04, V 2.0, March 2013. Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment. Second edition 2008.

6 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

PURPOSE OF THIS REPORT

KI Studio Pty Ltd has been commissioned by Property NSW to The methodology used to undertake the study is summarised undertake a visual impact assessment on the upgrade works as follows: of the entrance off Playfair Street to assess the likely impacts that the proposal would have on the surrounding project areas. • Background review of the proposal to gain an appreciation of the project In addition, this report would inform the project approval authority and other agencies about the likely visual impact of • Detailed site visit to identify views, visual catchments, the proposal. magnitude of change etc

• Contextual analysis evaluating built and community context, METHODOLOGY connectivity and history of the site

Preparation of this report has involved a desk-top analysis and • Landscape character analysis, evaluating the characteristics a site visit. The assessment is based on Roads and Maritime of the site including land uses, scenic values, character Guidelines, specifically Guidelines for landscape character zones and landform and visual impact assessment No. EIA-N04,”Version 2.0 Issue Date 28 March 2013. • Determination of sensitivity levels based on the analysis, articulated into character zones The assessment is based on both the landscape character and the visual impacts. The landscape character impact is • Evaluation of the proposal’s impact on the landscape based on the aggregate of an area’s built, natural and cultural character character and sense of place. In this regard, it is measured by the combination of the area’s sensitivity and the magnitude (scale, character, number of viewers and distance). • Determination of the proposal’s visual exposure

For example, commercial properties are generally considered • Selection of viewpoints within the visual catchment that are less sensitive than private residences, and heritage properties representative of the varying site conditions surrounding are generally considered more sensitive than residential the proposal properties. Transient type spaces are generally considered less sensitive compared to spaces that people spend more • Evaluation of the proposal’s visual impact by comparing time in. the sensitivity of existing viewpoints and the magnitude of impact of the proposal upon them. The visual impact is based on specific viewpoints, taking into consideration the sensitivity of the viewer, as well as the visual Due to the scale of the project, the landscape character effect or magnitude of the proposal based on scale, distance, impact assessment has been kept succinct and provided in a contrast etc. tabular format.

The assessment also makes reference to Guidelines for Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment, The Landscape Institute, Institute of Environmental Management & Assessment. Second edition 2008.

7 02 CONTEXTUAL ANALYSIS

LANDSCAPE CONTEXT

The building is located in a highly urbanised environment and within the historic precinct of the Rocks, directly north of Sydney’s CBD (see figure 2.3). The Rocks is a major tourist area that features a variety of retail shops and historic pubs. Residences, as well as office buildings are interspersed within the precinct, giving the area a vibrant character.

The area is of state significance, being established shortly after the colony’s formation in 1788 and retains a significant portion of its historic urban fabric that gives the district its charm and identity.

The Rocks extends from the southern approach of Figure 2.1 View of The Penrhyn House showing the existing glazed the Harbour Bridge (Bradfield Highway) on the west entrance in the background. to Sydney Cove to the east, and from Dawes Point to Grosvenor Street to the south.

The general topography drops gently to the east towards Sydney Cove and dramatically rises to the west in direction Observatory Hill. The highly urbanised setting provides little greenery except for street trees flanking Argyle, Playfair and Harrington Streets.

Playfair Street is a dedicated pedestrian zone, whilst Argyle Street is mostly open to traffic except for the section between Harrington and George Street which is also a pedestrianised zone.

Views to Sydney Cove are attainable from Argyle Street but not from Playfair Street. As such, Playfair Street is Figure 2.2 Playfair Street offers views towards the Sydney Harbour rather a narrow and introverted urban space with a focus Bridge, contributing to the sense of place and identity of the area. towards the historic buildings, yet it offers views towards the Harbour Bridge to the north. Restaurants spill into these urban spaces contributing to the vibrant character of the area (see figures 2.1 and 2.2).

8 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

HARBOUR BRIDGE

DAWES POINT

SYDNEY OPERA BARANGAROO COVE

200m 150m 100m

Argyle St Hickson Rd Hickson

ROYAL BOTANIC OBSERVATORY GARDENS HILL PARK Cahill Expy

Bradfield Hwy Harrington St

Grosvenor Street

Figure 2.3 General location map

Bradfield Hwy Playfair Street

Gloucester Walk

Cumberland Street ROCKS CENTRE ACCESS UPGRADE George Street

Argyle Street Kendall Ln

Cambridge Street Argyle Street

Gloucester Street

Harrington Street

Figure 2.4 Detailed location plan

9 BUILT FORM CHARACTER

The Penrhyn House is a former warehouse building constructed in c.1924 and currently used for commercial and retail purposes.

The building’s outer facade consists of face brick with concrete lintels over door and window openings. The main facade facing Argyle Street incorporates vertical brick detailing that expresses the monitor roofscape cladded in corrugated steel.

Multi paned timber framed windows, combined with the clerestory windows of the monitor roof compliment the composition of the facade that gives the building its utilitarian character. Figure 2.5 Front facade of The Penrhyn House fronting Argyle Street. Some sections of the fenestration fronting Argyle Street have Note the modified fenestration on the ground floor. been modified from the original design with larger openings to suit the adaptable use of the building.

The Penrhyn House abuts the Scarborough House to the north, which is a commercial/residential mixed use property built in c.1978-79 that has a modern character.

The remaining buildings surrounding The Penrhyn House are predominantly historic, two to four storeys in height. Directly opposite and along Playfair Street are the Argyle Stores, dating from 1826. Directly to the north and diagonally from the proposed entrance is the Cleland Bond Store, built in 1914 as a warehouse. Further afield are the Argyle terraces.

At the intersection of Argyle Street and Harrington Street is the former British Seamen’s Hotel, one of The Rock’s prominent corner hotels. Adjacent to the hotel is the Gannon House and Shop at 45-47 Argyle Street, another significant historic Figure 2.6 The Scarborough House is a modern development that building. abuts The Penrhyn House.

Opposite to the former British Seamen’s Hotel at the intersection of Harrington Street and Argyle Street is a modern development, the Clocktower shopping centre.

Figure 2.7 View of the Argyle Terraces. Retail shops and restaurants occupy the ground floor.

10 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

NETWORK CONTEXT

Harrington and Argyle Streets are local roads with a limited amount of vehicular traffic. As previously mentioned, Playfair Street and parts of Argyle Street are pedestrianised zones. This is important as the transient nature of the viewer tends to be slower and more observant in these type of spaces compared to a local road. In addition, the spatial experience is different as pedestrian viewers can use the full width of the street, compared to being confined to the pedestrian path. This provides the opportunity for a variety of viewing experiences from different angles.

The importance of the district as a key tourist precinct also contributes to the number of viewers. Playfair Street is situated at the hearth of the Rocks making it a very prominent locality, Figure 2.8 The area fronting the building along Playfair Street is used by many pedestrians, both locals and tourists. a pedestrian zone. Restaurants spill out into the public domain contributing to the character and vibrancy of the area. LAND USE

The land use of the immediate area is diverse and includes retail, restaurants, office spaces, commercial venues and residential uses.

Figure 2.9 View looking from Harrington Street towards Playfair Street. To the right of the photograph is the former British Seamen’s Hotel.

Figure 2.10 The Argyle Stores (former Customs House) houses restaurants and office spaces.

11 HISTORY

The general area is on the traditional land of the Eora people. ‘Eora’ means ‘here’ or ‘from this place’ and the Gadigal are a clan of the Eora Nation.

Following the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788, a hospital was built west of George Street and in 1816, it was relocated to Macquarie Street.

With the relocation of the hospital, the property was in private hands and it was not until 1840s that the site was sub-divided and developed as terraces in 1872/73, known as the Argyle Terrace.

1922 the Argyle Terrace and adjacent premises were demolished to allow for the realignment and widening of Playfair Street. As the result of the demolition work and street Figure 2.11 View looking towards 22-26 Playfair Street and the Argyle widening, a new lot was created at the corner of Argyle Street Stores in the background. and Playfair Street.

The current building was constructed in c.1924, developed by Leslie Alfred Turnbull as a industrial workshop type building, still evident today.

The former Turnbull workshop (Penrhyn House), has historical significance as one of the few remaining twentieth century industrial buildings within The Rocks area.

Penrhyn House is of State heritage significance for its historical and scientific cultural values. It is also of State heritage significance for its contribution to The Rocks precinct which is of State heritage significance in its own right.

The Rocks owes its name to the rugged outcrops of rock around Dawes Point. The precinct is of national cultural significance reflecting more than two centuries of history from early settlement to present. The map in figure 2.12 illustrates the high number of heritage listed items in the area.

Figure 2.12 The Cleland Bond building is a former warehouse and one of the first buildings re-adapted for new use as an office space.

12 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

Figure 2.13 Map of heritage listings in The Rocks. Source The Rocks Heritage Management Plan Volume 1 April 2010 - Appendix B.

Note that there are only two properties not listed in the State Heritage Register (The Scarborough House and the Clocktower Shopping Centre) in the immediate vicinity of the proposal.

13 The following excerpt has been taken directly from the The building has associations with government welfare Conservation Management Plan prepared by Orwell & Peter operations during the Great Depression, and with the firm Phillips for the Penrhyn House, 22–26 Playfair Street, The Thomas Playfair Pty Ltd, which used it and the site to the north Rocks, dated March 2009. as garages to help maintain its fleet of transport vehicles to serve its provedore business which included the supply of the The site of Penrhyn House, part of the original convict-built Pacific naval fleet during World War II. hospital at Sydney Cove, was associated from at least the 1850s with metalworking (blacksmithing and coppersmithing), The demolition by the Sydney Cove Redevelopment Authority probably serving nearby shipping. The present building was of the smaller buildings to the north was a catalyst for the constructed for this purpose, and is a modest example of an Green Bans placed on The Rocks by the Builders Labourers early 20th century industrial building, one of very few such Federation, which led to the preservation of Penrhyn House buildings remaining in The Rocks and also a rare surviving and many other buildings within The Rocks. example of the work of its architect, F E Stowe.

Figure 2.14 Building application drawing for Turnbull’s workshops. Source: Building Application plan 0658/23, City of Sydney Archives

14 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

Figure 2.15 Playfair’s Garage in 1970. Source: Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority Archives Image No 40009/742/207

Figure 2.16 The building today with its adaptive use.

15 03 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT ASSESSMENT

The landscape character impact is based on the aggregate Harrington Street of an area’s built, natural and cultural character and sense of place. In this regard, it is measured by the combination of This zone is defined by the local streets of Harrington and the area’s sensitivity and the magnitude (scale, character and Argyle Streets. Its character is greatly defined by an intermix of distance). contemporary and historic buildings set in a local streetscape with vehicular traffic. Due to the limited scale of the proposal and the general homogeneousness of the area, only two landscape character A sensitivity value and magnitude of change has been zones have been identified surrounding the project area. assigned to each character zone to identify the resulting impact. The table below illustrates how the level of sensitivity and magnitude are combined to achieve an overall level Playfair Street Precinct of impact for both the landscape character impact and the visual impact in accordance with the Roads and Maritime’s This zone comprises of the pedestrian zone north of Argyle Environmental Impact Assessment Practice Note - Guidelines Street and east of Harrington Street. It comprises the public for Landscape Character and Visual Impact Assessment No. domain areas and adjacent historic buildings such as the Argyle EIA-N04,”Version 2.0 Issue Date 28 March 2013. Terrace, Penrhyn House, the Argyle Stores and the former British Seamen’s Hotel. It also includes the Scarborough House It should be noted that the ratings are measured relative to which is one of the few modern developments sympathetic to each other rather then assigned through an absolute scale. the setting. The pedestrian character, devoid of vehicular traffic Hence the resulting landscape character impact rating is is a key characteristic that defines this zone. project specific and identifies those areas with the highest and lowest impacts.

Magnitude

High Moderate Low Negligible

High High impact High- moderate Moderate Negligible

Moderate High- moderate Moderate Moderate-low Negligible

Low Moderate Moderate-low Low Negligible

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Sensitivity

Figure 3.1 Visual Impacts Rating Table, example illustrating the resulting impact as a combination of sensitivity and magnitude.

16 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

03 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER IMPACT ASSESSMENT

LANDSCAPE CHARACTER LANDSCAPE CHARACTER SENSITIVITY LEVEL MAGNITUDE OF IMPACT ZONE IMPACT

ZONE 1 - PLAYFAIR High: although the land use Negligible: the proposal would Negligible: the proposal would STREET PRECINCT is of moderate sensitivity, its have a negligible impact to have no noteworthy impact to historic fabric and cultural the character, identity and the existing setting. importance are substantial functioning of the area. The and provide a key identity proposal would replace an to Sydney and its history. existing ‘contemporary’ structure This superimposed with the with a new one of slightly larger pedestrianisation of the public bulk. domain further complements the setting, hence a high sensitivity is assessed. This is further underpinned by viewscapes towards the Harbour Bridge, contributing to the sense of place.

ZONE 2 - HARRINGTON High: although this zone Negligible: the replacement of Negligible: no perceptible STREET is considered slightly less the entry to 22-26 Playfair Street change to this zone has been sensitive to Zone 1, its general has no impact to the character identified as a result of the context within the district of and identity of this zone. proposal. The Rocks warrants such a rating.

The proposal is considered to have no noteworthy impact on the landscape character of the area. It could be argued, that the proposal would improve access for visitors to 22-26 Playfair Street and as a result improve the functioning of the building and service provided for visitors.

Despite the high sensitivity of the area, the limited scale of the proposal and the limited change it brings about, results in the negligible landscape character impact for both identified zones.

17 04 VISUAL IMPACT

VISUAL IMPACT ANALYSIS

In order to assess the visual impact, a Visual Envelope Map The viewpoints have been selected taking into consideration (the proposal’s visual catchment) has been prepared, as viewers from within buildings as well as within the public shown overleaf. The visual catchment is defined either by domain. topographical features, built form elements or screening vegetation. A rating is assigned to each viewpoint and refers to the quality of the existing view and how sensitive the viewer is to the The proposal has a limited visual exposure due to a variety proposed change. The sensitivity rating, combined with the of factors including vegetative screening, built form elements visual magnitude of impact rating, determines the visual impact and topographical features. In addition, the limited scale of the for each viewpoint and is based on the matrix below. proposal limits its overall visual exposure within the overall context of the setting. It should be noted that even though the assessment may discuss high impacts, the nature of this project is limited in its Built form elements from the new and historic buildings scale and visual effect. surrounding the site provide an effective screen that limits the visual exposure beyond. In addition, vegetative screening in It should also be noted that the ratings are measured relative the form of two mature trees provides limited visual access in a to each other rather than being assigned through an absolute number of cases, including views from higher grounds. scale. Hence the resulting visual impact rating is project specific and identifies those areas with the highest and lowest impacts. In order to determine the visual impact, sensitivity values have been assigned to the various viewpoints. The selected viewpoints are representative of the surroundings within the visual catchment of the proposal.

Magnitude

High Moderate Low Negligible

High High impact High- moderate Moderate Negligible

Moderate High- moderate Moderate Moderate-low Negligible

Low Moderate Moderate-low Low Negligible

Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Negligible Sensitivity

Table 4.1 Visual Impacts Rating Table, example illustrating the resulting impact as a combination of sensitivity and magnitude.

18 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

The adjacent figure illustrates the visual envelope map of the Legend proposal. Note the limited visual exposure of the entry hall within the greater setting. The most exposed areas are predominantly Visual exposure confined to Playfair Street, south of the proposal. Work area

1 Viewpoint

Playfair Street

6 8

7 1

Cumberland Street 4

Argyle Street Kendall Ln

2 Argyle Street 5 3

George Street

Cambridge Street Cambridge Gloucester Street Gloucester Harrington Street

Figure 4.1 Visual envelope map

19 VIEWPOINT 1

Pedestrian zone along Playfair Street, opposite to the Argyle Stores (Old Custom Description of the setting House) looking towards the entrance hall of 22-26 Playfair Street. Street trees and alfresco dining contribute to the visual quality of the setting.

Element visible of the project Playfair Street entrance is clearly visible in the foreground

Category of viewer Pedestrians

Adverse: the larger structure of the proposed works would impact the Nature of impact streetscape

Moderate due to the transient nature of the viewer. It is recognised that the Visual sensitivity sensitivity of the viewer is higher due to the significance of the setting.

Moderate. The existing entry hall would be removed and replaced with a new one. Although the scale of the proposed hall is slightly larger, its colour scheme Magnitude of impact is less contrasting than the existing one, hence somewhat mitigating this effect. The glazed roof would provide a lighter looking structure in appearance. Moderate. The visual character of the streetscape would not dramatically change Overall rating of visual impact due to the limited intervention of the proposal

Comment / mitigation measures No mitigation strategies identified.

20 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

VIEWPOINT 2

View from the upper storey of the former British Seamen’s Hotel, now Wine Description of the setting Odyssey, looking north towards Playfair Street.

Entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street is visible in the background (centre-right of Element visible of the project photograph)

Category of viewer Patrons to the restaurant

Nature of impact Adverse: the proposal could affect the viewscape for patrons

High: viewer is likely to stay for longer periods of time, making the viewer less Visual sensitivity transient. The charm of the area and its historic fabric contributes to a high sensitivity.

Low. The relative modest scale of the proposal and the distance to the viewer Magnitude of impact limit the overall effect

Moderate. Limited impact to the overall view due to the limited scale of the Overall rating of visual impact proposal and its contrast to the existing situation

No mitigation required. The street trees along Playfair Street contribute in Comment / mitigation measures providing a depth perception to the viewer and partially screens the works further mitigating apparent changes to the existing situation.

21 VIEWPOINT 3

Description of the setting View from Harrington Street looking north towards Playfair Street

Element visible of the project The entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street is visible in the distance.

Category of viewer Road users and pedestrians

Nature of impact Adverse: the proposal is modification to the existing situation

Moderate: transient viewer on local street within an area of high visual and Visual sensitivity cultural significance

Negligible. The shade situation provided by The Scarborough House limits the Magnitude of impact visual contrast of the structure

Overall rating of visual impact Negligible. The proposal would barely change the existing situation

No mitigation required. The proposal’s scale, distance to the viewer and the fact Comment / mitigation measures that the structure would be in the shade, strongly limits its visual presence in the overall setting.

22 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

VIEWPOINT 4

Description of the setting Pedestrian zone along Playfair Street in close proximity to the proposal.

Element visible of the project Entry hall would be clearly visible in close proximity

Category of viewer Restaurant patron or pedestrian

Adverse: the proposal would change the current setting and introduce a larger Nature of impact structure

High: restaurant patrons may spend longer periods of time in the setting. Visual sensitivity Moderate for pedestrians due to their transient nature in context with the setting Moderate. The new entry hall would contrast somewhat with the existing situation in terms of change in colour and scale. The glazed roof would provide Magnitude of impact a lighter looking structure in appearance mitigating the visual presence of the structure.

Moderate to high for restaurant patrons, whilst a moderate visual impact is Overall rating of visual impact assessed for pedestrians.

No mitigation required. Whilst a noticeable change would occur, this change is of a limited nature in scale. The different colour scheme of the proposal would contribute to this apparent change and it could be argued that the proposed Comment / mitigation measures colour scheme is more sympathetic to the existing building, by reducing its visual contrast to the existing situation. This would make the structure less visually dominant, partially off-setting its larger scale.

23 VIEWPOINT 6

View from the balcony of the Clocktower Shopping Centre looking towards the Description of the setting intersection of Playfair and Argyle Streets. The proposal would be seen in the background.

Element visible of the project The entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street is visible in the distance.

Category of viewer Shopping centre visitors

Adverse: the proposal may impact the visual amenity of the streetscape along Nature of impact Playfair Street

Moderate: most visitors to the shopping centre would be of a transient nature. Office workers within the shopping centre would experience a low visual sensitivity whilst Visual sensitivity restaurant guests at the shopping centre may enjoy this vista for longer periods of time, making them high in visual sensitivity.

Negligible. It is considered that the larger scale of the proposal would barely be Magnitude of impact noticeable from this distance, whilst the less contrasting colour scheme would help the structure blend better with the background and hence reduce its visual contrast.

Negligible. The proposal is not considered to have any great impact to the Overall rating of visual impact viewscape due to its scale and distance from the viewer. Other elements such as historic buildings would have a more dominant prominence.

No mitigation required as a better travel experience would be provided. Mitigations Comment / mitigation measures from a landscape character impact are discussed in later sections of this report

24 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

VIEWPOINT 5

Pedestrian zone along Playfair Street, opposite to the Cleland Bond Building Description of the setting entrance looking towards the entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street. Alfresco dining contributes to the visual character of the setting. Minor glimpses of the entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street in the mid-ground. Element visible of the project Centre-right of photograph.

Category of viewer Pedestrians

Nature of impact Adverse: the proposed works may impact negatively on the streetscape Moderate due to the transient nature of the viewer whilst acknowledging the Visual sensitivity visual quality of the setting

Low. The partial visibility of the proposed structure would limit its visual effect. It Magnitude of impact should be noted, that the proposed structure would be more visible as it would be slightly larger and more exposed from this viewing angle.

Low to moderate. Limited impact to the viewer. Visual character and sense of Overall rating of visual impact place of the streetscape would be retained.

Comment / mitigation measures No mitigation required

25 VIEWPOINT 7

View overlooking the entry hall at 22-26 Playfair Street from the office of the Bell Description of the setting Shakespeare’s Argyle Stores Rehearsal Space

Element visible of the project Direct view of the entry hall

Category of viewer Office workers of the Bell Shakespeare’s Argyle Stores Rehearsal Space

Adverse: the proposal would change the current setting and replace the existing Nature of impact entry hall with a larger structure

Visual sensitivity Low due to the land use of the premises.

Moderate. The close proximity of the entry hall to the viewer would make the proposed changes to the existing situation obvious. However, the use of similar materials such as glass and steel would retain a overall similar character to Magnitude of impact the structure, limiting its visual contrast to the existing situation. In addition, the glazed roof would provide a lighter looking structure further mitigating its appearance. Hence, the moderate rating.

Low to moderate. The proposal would not significantly alter the streetscape Overall rating of visual impact character not the outlook in form and composition

Comment / mitigation measures No mitigation required.

26 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017 22-26 Playfair Street, The Rocks NSW. Entry Hall Upgrade

VIEWPOINT 8

View from the rooftop terrace at the Glenmore Hotel looking towards Sydney Description of the setting Cove. In the background the Opera and parts of Circular Quay are visible.

Element visible of the project The roofscape of 22-26 Playfair Street (green roof) is visible in the mid-ground

Category of viewer Patron of the Glenmore Hotel on Cumberland Street

Nature of impact Adverse: proposal could impact the panoramic views

High: key attraction of the venue include the harbour views. Guests may enjoy Visual sensitivity the venue for longer periods of time

Negligible. The modifications to the existing entry hall would barely be noticeable, Magnitude of impact particularly with mature trees (even though deciduous) filtering views towards the proposal. The composition of the setting and its viewscape would not be affected. Negligible. No noteworthy impact to the existing panoramic views due to the Overall rating of visual impact proposal

No mitigation required. Even if the trees loose their foliage, the proposed entry hall would be a minor element in the setting/viewscape. The less contrasting Comment / mitigation measures colour scheme would reduce the visual prominence of this element. This would be offset by the increase scale, resulting in a neutral impact.

27 05 CONCLUSION

The replacement of the existing entry hall of 22-26 Playfair Street with a new one, based on the plans developed by Welsh + Major Architects would be considered to have a limited landscape character and visual impact.

The proposal is situated within a highly sensitive historic urban setting and conservation area that is highly sensitive to change. This makes the absorption capacity of the site low.

The proposed design utilises contemporary materials that are sympathetic to the historic setting and that somewhat replicate the existing situation. The unobtrusive location of the entry hall placed at the corner with the interface of the Scarborough House limits its prominence and respects the heritage fabric by allowing the structure to be subordinate to the main building.

From a landscape character point of view, the proposal would enhance the accessibility of this heritage property and improve its adapted functionality as a commercial and retail building.

From a visual impact point of view, the proposal would have a minor or negligible visual impact from numerous vantage points. The highest identified visual impact would be from within Playfair Street, just south of the structure. This visual impact is partially based on the visual effect of the proposed colour scheme which would contrast less with its surroundings, compared to the existing situation. This is juxtaposed by the slightly larger structure.

Overall, the impact of the proposed entry hall is considered minimal, consistent with the existing situation and respectful of the visual quality of the streetscape and historic built fabric.

28 Landscape Character & Visual Impact Assessment May 2017