Often cited as one of the rowdiest and most touristy pubs across Sydney’s CBD, the long-established, much-maligned Scruffy Murphy’s could be calling last drinks this year as the site’s new owner has lodged a stage one development application with the City of Sydney. KHG Co Pty Ltd, who along with Scruffy Murphy’s now owns the sites between 698 and 704 George Street, hope to redevelop the central corner near Chinatown, which will include the adaptive reuse of the heritage Kiss’s Building or Haymarket House.
If successful, the proposal will make use of a total of 17,021 square metres in gross floor area, resulting in a 40-storey hotel and residential tower with new retail shops. The application will most likely lead to the Scruffy Murphy’s building being demolished along with the adjoining property at 51-57 Goulburn Street, but it also considers a partial retention of the site, which measures in at a combined total of 1,225 square metres.
The potential $127 million development of the site will be structured in a similar way to the nearby Meriton’s World Tower property, with the hotel taking up levels 4 to 21 before turning into private apartments spanning levels 24 to 39.
Nothing has been confirmed yet, but if Scruffy Murphy’s infamously belligerent atmosphere appeals to you in any way (why though?), now is as good a time as ever to head down for one last Guinness before the pub is gone for good.
Source: afr.com
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