Times Square Sydney, Australia?

18 Mar 2015

Welcome to Kings Cross Darling Harbour

Sydney's nightlife hub of Kings Cross is set to receive its own kind of Times Square following a design competition held by the council. The area, which had a reputation for being one of the more questionable parts of town is undergoing a literal and figurative redevelopment to spruce up the appearance and attitudes of the area.

The design chosen will be a new 19-level hour-glass shaped tower that will be situated opposite the iconic Coca-Cola sign on the site of the former Mercure Hotel. Yet to be named, the development will launch later in the year and will be some of the hottest residential apartment property in the city.

When viewed from the Coca-Cola sign with Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road veering off, all the action and lights will bring the area a distinctly New York Times Square vibe. A distinct departure from the area's former reputation as being the 'sleazier' part of town, often depicted in the Underbelly television series' as a hotbed of crime.

These days, Kings Cross is still one of the city's most popular nightlife hubs, however recent lock down laws have seen a drop in trouble. Not to mention, the 'Cross' as it is affectionately known, is also home to a variety of bars, cafes, restaurants and delicatessens and offers a completely different atmosphere in the daylight.

Kings Cross has a real village feel to it and is a great spot to relax and watch the passing parade. Not to mention, there are a number of historical buildings that are actually worth a look. Nearby Macleay Street also runs down to the harbour and 'Garden Island', a major Navy base where you can actually tour war ships moored, almost by the side of the road.