The next chapter in the long and faithful history of St John’s Anglican Cathedral, Parramatta, is about to begin.
After years of prayer, perseverance and planning, the parish of St John’s has celebrated a major milestone: the finalisation of new planning controls for church-owned land adjacent to the Cathedral, opening the way for a transformative redevelopment at the heart of Sydney’s second CBD.
In early April the NSW Government confirmed updated planning parameters for the prominent site, bounded by Church, Macquarie, Marsden and Hunter Streets, clearing the path for a visionary renewal project years in the making. Supported by both the City of Parramatta Council and Government Architect NSW, the new framework will enable St John’s to lodge development applications that will bring their plans to life.
The St John’s precinct renewal will deliver:
- Over 2,500 square metres of new public open space, including a major civic square and a western forecourt for the Cathedral.
- Purpose-built ministry facilities, including large auditoriums and flexible meeting spaces for parish and community use.
- New retail offerings to enliven the local streetscape.
- Much-needed additional floor space for Parramatta’s growing city centre.
- Perpetual public access through the Cathedral site, connecting key parts of the city.
The Rector of St John’s, Rev Bruce Morrison, said the moment marked a culmination of faith, community effort, and vision.
“St John’s has been part of the Parramatta community for more than 220 years, and we want to continue serving for generations to come,” Rev Morrison said.
“This project is about creating a legacy. A 100-year masterplan that honours our history, responds to the needs of our city today, and opens doors for the future.”
Founded in 1802, St John’s Anglican Cathedral stands as a vibrant and diverse community. With more than 700 regular attenders and a membership of over 1,000 across 10 congregations worshipping in English, Cantonese, Mandarin and Farsi (Persian), the parish reflects the rich ethnic and cultural diversity of Parramatta’s broader community.
With an English-speaking second generation growing within the congregations, and outreach ministries such as weekly English classes serving students from many different backgrounds, St John’s continues its long tradition of welcoming its neighbours.
Parish Council member at St John’s, Jessica Williams, said the journey to this point has been eye-opening.
“It’s been an interesting lesson in just how complicated building projects can be, especially ones involving many layers of government, heritage issues, and large-scale developments in major cities,” she said. “We’re thankful for all those who have helped us get to this point.”
While the project has been led by the parish, Sydney Anglican Property (SAP) has partnered closely with St John’s and their planning consultants Jattca Strategic Property Solutions to help the project reach this key milestone.
SAP CEO Ross Jones commended the leadership and determination of the parish.
“The team at St John’s have carried the vision and heavy lifting for this project. It has been a real privilege for SAP to come alongside them to help get the final documentation across the line,” Mr Jones said.
“Parramatta is the geographic and demographic heart of Sydney. St John’s sits right at its centre, and it’s inspiring to see how their bold vision will use church property to bless the whole community.”
With the planning framework now secured, St John’s is preparing to submit development applications — the first visible steps toward a new civic heart for Parramatta.