A New Sydney Suburb, Bays West, is set to be built on the site of Glebe Island, a prominent industrial port and logistics hub. This development promises to bring thousands of new homes to the inner city, but it's not without its controversies. The crux of the matter lies in the close proximity of the new suburb to the White Bay Cruise Terminal, which welcomes over 100 cruise ships annually. The terminal, designed for mid-sized and luxury liners, will remain in its current form, but the government is installing new shore-power facilities to reduce noise and emissions. This has sparked debates about the best use of prime waterfront land. NSW Premier Chris Minns believes this is a game-changer for Sydney, but not everyone shares this enthusiasm. The state government has also confirmed that bulk port operations, including cement, gypsum, and sugar handling, will cease on Glebe Island by 2030. This will see the iconic giant silos, currently generating more revenue from billboards than storage, removed. However, some port activities will continue, with bulk deepwater berths and working harbour operations consolidated into White Bay. The Sydney Heritage Fleet, which maintains and restores Sydney's oldest marine vessels, will also be offered new premises in White Bay. Despite the controversies, the development of Bays West is set to bring much-needed housing to the inner city, but it remains to be seen how the housing will look. An international design competition will guide the development across the precinct.
