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To put that figure into perspective, the Sydney Opera House refit is costing the government $235 million, Sydney Modern $244 million, the regional cultural fund $100 million, Walsh Bay arts precinct $347 million and the Australian Museum refit cost $50 million.

Mr Baird was right that western Sydney deserves a world-class cultural institution, the arts and cultural funding gap disadvantaging a region that one in 10 Australians call home.

Had his government committed to the Powerhouse’s renewal five years ago, however, it would have been one year from completion. It could have had its Parramatta Powerhouse or decided to share its largesse with the Campbelltown Arts Centre, Casula Powerhouse, Joan Sutherland Theatre, and other regional galleries.

The Berejiklian government would have avoided the headlines, the inquiries, and the public backlash over the planned closure of Ultimo, necessitating the decision’s sudden reversal 12 months ago.

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Union green bans remain in force to block the demolition of the historic home of Willow Grove at Parramatta, which is to be dismantled and rebuilt elsewhere.

The Land and Environment Court hands down its judgment on Wednesday about the validity of the planning process for the Parramatta Powerhouse. Whatever the outcome, it will go to appeal.

Fans of the Powerhouse Ultimo will be grateful the museum got its lifeline in the end. But was the last five years worth all the angst, Mr Baird?

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