The Council’s preferred design was “City” as illustrated in this original perspective view. But there were problems with it: ‘narrow corridors, small rooms, and inconvenient approaches’ (Sydney Mail, 30 November 1889, p.1208), and with scandalous allegations of bribery hanging over their heads the Council decided to withdraw the prize.

Edward Bell, the City Engineer, was asked to modify the design. These plans, “City Improved”, were submitted to Council in February 1869. Animosity between J. H. Willson and Edward Bell grew as each battled to be seen as the real architect of the project. Edward Bell was dismissed for unrelated shortcomings in 1870. Willson acted as a consultant to the Council until his death early in 1872.

(image: City of Sydney Archives, CRS 385/11)