A ‘mini-city’ is beginning to take shape in the heart of the Sydney CBD in readiness for the arrival of Pope Benedict and the youth of the world.

Barangaroo, in East Darling Harbour, will be the busiest venue for WYD2008 and 100 builders are on site daily to make it ready in time for the Pope’s arrival.

"Come July, this precinct will become a mini-city for up to 150,000 young people at any one time," WYD08 Coordinator Bishop Anthony Fisher OP said.

"This spectacular site will be where the Pope will be welcomed and the young people of the world - who will become honorary Sydneysiders for a week - will participate in many WYD08 events."

The 22-hectare harbourfront site on the Sydney CBD’s western edge will host the following events:
· Opening Mass with Cardinal George Pell on Tuesday 15 July
· The Arrival and Welcome of Pope Benedict XVI on Thursday 17 July
· The final six Stations of the Cross on Friday 18 July
· Many Youth Festival performances on the two main stages

 "Barangaroo will become a mini-city housing two main stages, 45 pilgrim areas, 1200 toilets, 25 catering outlets, 25 lighting towers, six large screens, a 300-seat media tribune with seven translation booths, VIP areas, merchandise facilities and a special needs area," Bishop Fisher said.

"It will also feature a four metre high sanctuary, incorporating the altar to be used for the Opening Mass and the Arrival and Welcome of Pope Benedict."

The site, running north-south along Hickson Road, was made available by the New South Wales Government ahead of its redevelopment as a new business, residential and recreational precinct.

"We are proud to welcome the Pope and the youth of the world to such an impressive location," said Iemma Government spokesperson for World Youth Day, Kristina Keneally.

"Barangaroo is the only harbourside precinct - indeed the only CBD location - capable of accommodating up to 150,000 people at any one time. The site was chosen for its capacity, availability and supreme location to showcase Sydney's marvellous harbour."