Sydney property history inspires Wynyard plaza name proposal
An artist's impression of the area linking Wynyard Station and Barangaroo that could be named Napoleon Plaza. Image: Supplied

Sydney property history inspires Wynyard plaza name proposal

Sydney’s commercial and business history has inspired the name proposed for new open space linking Wynyard Station and Barangaroo.

The City of Sydney wants to know what the community thinks of the moniker Napoleon Plaza, a name that has been requested by Transport for NSW.

The name is inspired by former convict Francis Girard, one of the city’s most successful developers, businessmen and employers in the 1830s.

Girard moved to England in 1815 after serving as an officer in Napoleon Bonaparte’s army. He was convicted for stealing two watches and sent to Sydney to serve a seven-year sentence, which he spent as a dance and French language teacher.

After his conditional pardon in 1825, Girard became a baker and established a flour mill and named the road alongside Napoleon Street, according to the City of Sydney.

An 1830s map of Sydney showing a windmill in the area developed by Francis Girard. Photo: Supplied An 1830s map of Sydney showing a windmill in the area developed by Francis Girard. Photo: Supplied

The thoroughfare was on the original Cockle Bay foreshore and connected Margaret Street with the mill site and wharf.

The street remains and today borders the area between Wynyard and Barangaroo.

“This new plaza connects with Napoleon Street, and its history encourages us to take inspiration from one of Sydney’s earliest successful business stories,” City of Sydney chief executive Monica Barone said.

“The name Napoleon Plaza will help link this site to its heritage and make it easier for local residents and visitors to find and enjoy.

“The new plaza will become a popular meeting place and city landmark, providing pedestrians with a safe and accessible route from Wynyard Station to Sydney’s western waterfront via Wynyard Walk.”

Girard’s flour mill operated until 1841. He died in 1859. His building was consumed by road-widening works in the early 20th century.

The area that could be named Napoleon Plaza is south of Napoleon Street, between Kent and Sussex streets. It will carry foot traffic from Wynyard Station to Barangaroo via Wynyard Walk and a pedestrian bridge over Sussex Street.

Under Geographic Names Board guidelines, the City of Sydney is the relevant roads authority responsible for naming the plaza. The naming proposal originated from a request by Transport for NSW and has won the backing of the City’s historian, Barangaroo Development Authority and Lendlease.

The naming proposal, which is on public exhibition for 28 days, will be advertised through the local press, a letterbox drop, public notices and on the Sydney Your Say website.

After the community consultation period, findings will be reported to Sydney City Council for final approval.

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