ABSTRACT
The balance of power between city, state and various community groups has been a source of tension in capital cities throughout history and has strongly influenced city form. The political and organisational structure controlling the Sydney CBD is examined. The current urban design controls and their relationship to six case studies are discussed. In the complex web of relationships within the city, it is typically the clarity and strength of the urban design objectives and professional skills which are more likely to determine outcomes than the political or bureaucratic organisation.
