Concept art of Darwin’s revitalised Liberty Square. Image: NT Government.
The Northern Territory Government has unveiled graphics of how Darwin’s new Liberty Square Revitalisation will look when complete.
Work on the $3.8 million project has been underway for several months and is about 80 per cent complete. Civil works and in-ground services have been completed, and progress is being made on a porcellanite-clad retaining wall, the raised deck to the heritage-listed banyan tree, and the pathways and other landscape features.
The project will improve the connectivity, functionality and accessibility of Liberty Square, provide new short-term parking, and extend the pedestrian pathway along the front of Government House.
Other features will be a new accessible seating area around the banyan tree, and new landscaping using tropical tree varieties including raintrees, milkwoods and yellow flame trees with water-sensitive urban design elements to capture rainwater for watering.
The Liberty Square revitalisation forms part of the government’s historic 10-year Darwin City Deal, which is being delivered in partnership with the Federal Government and the City of Darwin.
The project ties into the wider Civic and State Square Precinct, which includes the completion of the State Square underground carpark and native garden, demolition of the former Chan building to create the Chan Lawns, the redevelopment of the former parliamentary carpark to create a green landscape area, and construction of the Northern Territory Art Gallery.
A graphic showing key elements of the Darwin City Deal redevelopment. Image: NT Government.
Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Joel Bowden said the Territory Government was backing quality projects that put Territorians in work.
“The Civic and State Square revitalisation reimagines the green heart of Darwin city into a welcoming and interactive space for Territorians and visiting tourists alike,” he said.
“It creates a more pedestrian-friendly space with the redevelopment not only creating opportunities for local businesses and jobs for Territorians, but gives Darwin city a cooler and more vibrant space to enjoy.
“This precinct is an important part of the Darwin City Deal, a 10-year project between the Territory and Australian governments and City of Darwin to create a vibrant and liveable tropical city.”
After Liberty Square, projects to be completed include the Northern Territory Art Gallery, the Central Heart space for special community events as well as everyday enjoyment, a tropical tree walk on the pedestrianised Smith Street, an expansive lawn suitable for festivals and events, and new forecourts with water features for Parliament House and the Supreme Court buildings.
