Dexus begins construction on MLC Centre retail precint renewal, Sydney

Dexus has begun construction on a development to tranform the MLC Centre precinct into a premier space in the heart of the Sydney CBD.

The circa $170 million project (artist rendition pictured in title) will deliver approximately 6,000 sqm of new and improved retail space across four levels and is supported by the existing office tower in Martin Place.

It follows just a few months after Dexus implemented a purchase right over the remaining half of the MLC Centre that was first listed in January.

The ASX-listed group already owned half of the building, and it is believed Dexus paid $800 million for the half previously owned by the GPT Group, which has a book value of $725 million.

The new retail offering will include, new luxury and premium retail to Castlereagh and King Streets, a new plaza food and beverage precinct fronting onto Martin Place and a mix of retail and service providers within the building core.

Plus a new commercial tower entrance will be established from Castlereagh Street (artist rendition pictured above), improving connectivity for workers and visitors.

The redevelopment also includes plans to revive the Theatre Royal with Dexus entering into a 45 year lease with the NSW Government, paving the way for a private theatre operator to run the theatre.

The MLC Centre, originally designed by architect Harry Seidler, has been a key city landmark since 1978.

Harry Seidler and Associates Director Penelope Seidler said, “I am so excited about the design of the new works proposed for the MLC Centre. The integrity of Harry’s original architecture is to be re-established and contrasted with new geometries of internally illuminated glass. The MLC Centre will become the glowing core of the centre of Sydney.”

Project partners include Probuild (Builder), Woods Bagot (Architect) and Harry Seidler and Associates (peer review).

Throughout the development works the existing MLC Centre car park, food court, IGA Supermarket and several other retailers will remain open and in operation.

The redevelopment of the MLC Centre retail precinct is expected to be completed by the end of 2021.