The just completed Parramatta City River Strategy prepared by McGregor Coxall was recently endorsed by Parramatta Council. The urban design strategy prepared over the past twelve months in consultation with the community outlines an urban renewal plan for AUD$194 million of riverfront public space and facilities together with over a billion dollars of mixed use development to reunite the city with the river.
The strategy is underpinned by a public place led delivery approach that will create active high quality public attractions along the river to encourage investment. The 1.5km, 30 hectare river corridor is protected as an environmental asset that facilitates urban renewal through establishment of a vibrant urban park setting for residents, workers and visitors. The plan features Sydneys largest public plaza, River Square on the site of the now dilapidated Council car park for outdoor dining, city celebrations and urban life. Accommodating up to 10,000 people the sun filled River Square contains Australia’s first ‘Water Square’ a multi-functional public space that can be used for hosting events such as news years eve, children’s play, art events and swimming. An urban beach is located nearby for cooling off in summer.
Adrian McGregor, the Project’s Design Director of McGregor Coxall said “The project seeks to deliver the riverfront vitality of ‘The Bund’ in Shanghai mixed with the urban ambience of ‘Hafencity’ in Hamburg.”
Image & Text Credit | McGregor Coxall