Negotiations are under way between the Sydney Archdiocese and the New South Wales government to hold the opening mass of next year's World Youth Day on a stretch of Sydney waterfront with picturesque harbour views.A 22-hectare container wharf site along East Darling Harbour known as The Hungry Mile, will be used for the Mass.
It is understood that the Church is close to signing an access agreement.
The site will accommodate up to 150,000 pilgrims.
It will also provide a dramatic and telegenic backdrop for the arrival of Pope Benedict by launch two days later.
Cardinal George Pell will preside at the first Mass on Tuesday 15 July.
Organisers are also considering using the East Darling Harbour site as one of 14 city locations for the re-enactment of the stations of the cross pilgrims walk.
Negotiations between the church, Sydney Ports Corporation, the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority and the State Government have been conducted out of the public eye, to avoid a repeat of the drama over use of the Royal Randwick Racecourse for the Pope's final vigil Mass.
At the 11th hour the Australian Jockey Club refused to sign an agreement for the use of the racecourse, after horse trainers threatened to sue for about $50 million in compensation.
The State Government says the six-day festival will be the largest gathering held in Australia, drawing almost as many international visitors as the Olympic Games in 2000.
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