SYDNEY - A French climber nicknamed "Spiderman" scaled a landmark Sydney skyscraper Tuesday, thrilling office workers but angering police, who arrested him upon his descent.

Police closed off roads along most of a city block as Alain Robert made his way up the 219 metre (718 foot) Aurora Place building without safety ropes or a harness, cheered on by about 200 pedestrians.

With office workers inside the building closely following his progress, the daredevil reached the top of the 41-storey structure then immediately began the climb down to ground level.

The 46-year-old was arrested on a platform near the bottom of the building, earning more cheers from the crowd.

Robert has climbed more than 80 buildings around the world in an attempt to raise awareness about climate change.

He is also no stranger to Australia, having previously scaled the Sydney Opera House.

Police charged Robert with risking the safety of others by climbing a building and granted him bail to appear in court on Wednesday.

Police Superintendent Ken Finch condemned the Frenchman's antics.

"It's a dangerous and, in my view, an irresponsible stunt," he said.

An office worker named Peta, who watched the climb from the street as she sipped her morning coffee, was more impressed.

"I think it's really important for people to push the limit, I think it's an important part of life, going out and doing crazy things," she told national news agency AAP.

"It's absolutely ridiculous, it's great. I love it."

-AFP