Sydney’s two casino giants have hit the jackpot after the Berejiklian government dropped a legal case that threatened Crown Resort’s interests at Barangaroo, and the Premier intervened personally in support of an apartment and hotel tower at The Star casino in Pyrmont.

But Gladys Berejiklian's incursion into the debate about The Star’s proposed $500 million tower has exposed her to criticism that she risks undermining the credibility of the state’s planning system.

Proposed tower for The Star. Credit:Star.com.au

The 66-storey Star tower, which would include 204 residential apartments and 220 hotel rooms, was recommended for rejection by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment last month on grounds including that it was out of character for the area.

But in a press release stating Pyrmont was to get a “facelift”, Ms Berejiklian said she had directed the Greater Sydney Commission to review planning rules in Pyrmont to make sure they were consistent with the government’s “vision.” This was not expanded upon, beyond the statement that Pyrmont should be a “vibrant residential, entertainment and innovation hub”.