The operator sought approval to demolish part of its existing complex and construct a new 237-metre tower and podium, consisting of a 220 room, six-star Ritz-Carlton hotel, 204 residential apartments, a basement car park and a neighbourhood centre.
The Department of Planning, Industry and Environment concluded the AU$529m (US$360.2m) proposal should be refused because it is "inconsistent with current strategic planning for the site and locality fails to promote the orderly use and development of land."
It added the new tower would be inconsistent with its immediate context and result in "unacceptable" visual impacts due to its scale.
The proposal was then referred to the Independent Planning Commission due to objections from Sydney’s Council and the community.
Supporters of the project were vocal about its high-quality design and positive economic impacts, including job creation and contributions to the tourism industry.
