Woolloomooloo not part of government's original intention

The DoP assessed proposed changes in road conditions against clear planning objectives for the project, which encompassed the broader Central Sydney area (see Exhibit 4.2). The focus on Central Sydney was a shift from Action for Transport 2010 plan which saw the tunnel as part of improving life in the CBD only. The shift in focus from the CBD to Central Sydney was necessary as the tunnel concept design evolved through public consultation. This shift in focus was not well understood by the public.

Action for Transport 2010 envisaged one lane would be closed on William Street to enable pavement widening and landscaping work. The tunnel envisaged in this plan did not affect areas in Central Sydney such as Woolloomooloo.

Central Sydney includes Pyrmont, Ultimo, Chippendale, Surry Hills, Paddington, Kings Cross, Woolloomooloo and Rushcutter's Bay, as well as the CBD. See Exhibit 4.2.

The tunnel concept grew from a CBD focus to a broader area that encompassed parts of Central Sydney as a result of community consultation. A central criticism of the original short 'Museum' tunnel (refer to Exhibit 1.1A) put on public display was that the project would not achieve a long-term vision of improving William Street. The Sydney City Council put this view strongly.