Pyrmont Ultimo edges closer to being the certified tech hub of Australia with Google expanding its footprint in the precinct. The internet behemoth has acquired 38-42 Pirrama Road, currently tenanted by Seven Network and just metres away from their headquarters in the acclaimed, sustainably designed Workplace6 building.  Google will also occupy 1 Darling Island Road when the Fairfax Media Group vacates it next year, giving them a dominant presence on the peninsula.
There had been fears within the NSW business community that the tech giant would move its operations to another state after two previous attempts to expand failed. The White Bay Power Station was offered to Google in 2015 as part of former NSW premier Mike Baird’s plans to redevelop the site into a Silicon Valley style hub. Google purportedly was not happy with the location due to poor transport infrastructure.
Then late last year, Mirvac pitched a development proposal to the State government that involved creating a technology hub at Eveleigh near Carriageworks with Google as the cornerstone tenant. The plan included an upgrade of Redfern Station and a bridge across the tracks connecting Eveleigh/Carriageworks to Australia Technology Park. The government rejected the proposal, preferring to call for open tenders.
Having Google firmly ensconce itself in the precinct is a boon for Pyrmont Ultimo which boasts a high number of small tech businesses and start-ups. It will hopefully create job opportunities, raise the profile of the area and encourage more major companies to consider setting up shop in the district.

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