A 12,000 square metre hole in the ground in Pyrmont, once a sandstone quarry turned council depot and dump site, is set to be transformed into a mixed-use precinct. The new development proposal was approved on Thursday night and will include apartments, offices, shops, a childcare centre, and two sports courts. The site, located at the corner of Wattle and Fig streets, has a special place in Sydney’s history as it provided sandstone for the construction of the General Post Office in Martin Place during the 19th century.
Known as the “Hellhole” quarry from 1870 to 1888, the site was one of three main Pyrmont quarries producing Sydney sandstone, alongside Paradise and Purgatory. Hellhole was renowned for its hard work and poorer-quality stone, while Paradise produced the best golden sandstone. The City of Sydney council purchased the site in 1906 and used it as a depot until 1990. Despite ceasing operations, it later became a dump site for various materials displaced during the construction of the George Street light rail, including sandstone and poles.
In 2018, developer Landream acquired the site for $200 million with the condition of providing a childcare facility and multi-use indoor courts. The approved development plan includes the construction of 237 apartments, including 63 three-bedroom units, a childcare centre with 91 places, and a recreation centre that will revert to council ownership. At its tallest, the development will stand 12 storeys high. The location of the site next to the Wentworth Park light-rail stop on the L1 line near the Fish Market makes it a prime spot for a mixed-use precinct.
The Wattle Street site in Pyrmont, which once served as a notorious sandstone quarry and council depot, will soon be revitalized into a vibrant and functional space. The mixed-use precinct planned for the area will not only bring new housing options in the form of 237 apartments but also provide office, retail, and recreational facilities for the community. In addition, the inclusion of a childcare centre and sports courts reflects the developer’s commitment to creating a diverse and family-friendly environment in the heart of the city.
The history of the site, previously known as the “Hellhole” quarry, adds a unique and historical significance to the upcoming development. With ties to Sydney’s past as a provider of sandstone for iconic buildings like the General Post Office, the transformation of this once neglected area highlights the city’s ability to adapt and evolve. The planned precinct will not only breathe new life into the Wattle Street site but also contribute to the ongoing revitalization of Pyrmont, a key inner-city suburb with a rich heritage and promising future.
The approval of the development proposal marks a significant milestone in the journey towards transforming the Wattle Street site into a modern and sustainable precinct. With a focus on creating a well-rounded community space that caters to the diverse needs of residents and visitors, the project is poised to become a valuable addition to the urban landscape. As construction gets underway and the new precinct takes shape, it is clear that the legacy of the “Hellhole” quarry will be preserved and reimagined for generations to come.
