The design team of JPW and ASPECT Studios has been appointed to move forward on the Development Application for Town Hall Square. A project that involves the demolition of seven buildings to create a new public square in the centre of downtown Sydney, opposite Sydney Town Hall. The large open space, bounded by George, Pitt and Park streets, will feature new trees, seating, lighting and paving.
The vision for the square dates back to the 1980s, when the City of Sydney began purchasing properties to create a new town square, with the final purchase made in 2025. The vision for the square gained greater importance in the early 2000’s as part of a plan for three connected public squares along George Street (Circular Quay, Town Hall/Sydney Square and Central Station). As George Street was pedestrianised in the mid-2010’s, this vision can now come to fruition.
Town Hall Square is envisioned as a civic heart — a space that meets everyday needs while elevating the city’s shared centre. It’s an opportunity to create a public realm that is generous and inclusive.
ASPECT Studios
It is expected that the Development Application will be submitted in late 2026, with construction beginning in 2028 and the square to be completed by 2031. Sydney Square, adjacent to the Town Hall building (opposite the planned Town Hall Square), is set for renovation in 2027.
The name for the new square has yet to be decided, with the City exploring a name for the square using a Sydney Aboriginal word.
Images: credits as captioned
WLA Editor’s Note
I hope that the new square creates a vibrant third place for residents and visitors. The design will require resolution of many issues, including the entrance to the Town Hall Metro station and the Light Rail stops. Most of all, I hope the city takes this opportunity to create a space designed for climate resilience in 2080, with extensive shade and urban cooling.