What to do with Taylor Square?

Locals and community groups will be able to have a say in the Jahn Associates $1.5 million redesign of south Taylor Square at public workshops during October and November.

But the biggest item on Taylor Square Action Group’s wish list is for the City of Sydney to buy the hotel that bears the iconic location’s name and turn it into a community centre.

Group spokesman Brian Noad said it was sad to see police waste public resources outside the venue every Sunday.

A whole contingent of police are there every Sunday, taking them away from doing other things -¦ and [the hotel] has still got seven years on its licence, Noad said.

The alternatives could be a branch of the new Surry Hills Community Library, a community centre for people with mental health or drug and alcohol problems, or for other community causes, he said. Reverting the premises to a cafe and restaurant or one of Clover Moore’s small bars would also be a huge improvement to the local economy and residents’ peace of mind.

The idea has caught on with lord mayoral candidate Meredith Burgmann, and for now Noad is happy to wait for the Graham Jahn architects to do their consultation as long as they look widely, not just at residents within 50 metres.

A City of Sydney spokeswoman said the Taylor Square South project wouldn’t seek to comprehensively redesign the area, but build on previous upgrades to make it more pedestrian-friendly, lively, vibrant, attractive and safe and balance the area’s distinctive character while revitalising its use.

Currently researching the site, its history and issues, Graham will help develop design strategies for the area after a series of public workshops later this year. Following the workshops, the City will prepare a concept for Council, the spokeswoman said.

Residents, business owners and community groups will be invited to participate in the workshops, the spokeswoman said, as well as seeking ideas ahead of the public forums.

A draft report is expected to be finalised in early 2009 for a total cost of just under $40,000, and the $1.5 million works could begin as soon as Council approves the plans.

The other key components of the Oxford Street Cultural Strategy will be the food and services emporium and facade upgrade of Council-owned properties along the north side of Oxford St. Grander plans include a boutique hotel and an iconic glass building for Taylor Square North that could house a restaurant.

With the passing of the small bars legislation, the City also hopes to refurbish Foley St for small retail outlets and bars.