The City of Sydney released updated designs for a major transformation with the demolition of city-owned buildings to create a new public square opposite Sydney Town Hall. The design promises a unique and contemporary plaza, surrounded by a curved grove of distinctly Australian trees, that will reshape how people gather, celebrate and move through the city.
The Lord Mayor emphasised the importance of creating a large, vibrant civic space in Sydney’s CBD, similar to other major cities. She reflected on past efforts to secure land for this purpose and highlighted the new design’s features, including circular paving, water elements, native trees, and seating. Moore described the project as a unique opportunity to transform a central area into a welcoming, iconic gathering place that could serve as the city’s ‘living room’.
JPW is the lead design consultant and architect for the Town Hall square project, working alongside ASPECT Studios as landscape architects.
“A grove of native trees will provide shade and softness in a warming climate, generous seating will invite people to linger, and cool moving water brings movement and a sense of delight. The tree canopy will light up and ensure the square is safe and welcoming,” Sacha Coles, Global Design Director at ASPECT Studios, said.
Council has committed to giving the square a First Nations name, using a local Aboriginal word in line with the principles and guidance in our Naming Policy. The City of Sydney is planning opportunities to recognise and practice First Nations cultures in this space.
Council has allocated $150 million to the project’s design, demolition and construction. All costs for the square, including costs associated with the termination of existing leases and funds to acquire the remaining property, have been factored into the City of Sydney’s long-term financial plans.
The City of Sydney will also start an upgrade of the area between Sydney Town Hall and St Andrew’s Cathedral next year, with new paving, seating and lighting to further improve the entire precinct.
A development application for Town Hall square will be lodged soon, with community feedback welcomed. Demolition is planned for 2028, and the square should be completed by 2031.
Read more about the project at city.sydney/town-hall-square
Images: Courtesy of the City of Sydney
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