The Territory Labor Government has announced $30 million in funding for Budget 2021 to continue delivery of the Civic and State Square revitalisation.

Today, the Government has also released another fly through of the Central Heart, from a different view point, which joins all the State Square elements together.

The State Square overhaul is a critical part of the historic $200 million Darwin City Deal, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government and the City of Darwin.

This is a significant CBD revitalisation project that will boost the Territory as the comeback capital.

Over the next 12 months, the $30 million will deliver:

• Detailed design and constructions tenders going out to market;
• Documentation, approvals and staged work packages for the delivery of the Civic and State Square Masterplan over the next 5 years; and
• Consultation with all key stakeholders in the design development.

These additional works will complement the current works that are continuing and include:

• Removal of the 90 bay carpark adjacent to the native garden above the underground carpark,
• Revitalisation of Liberty Square to provide quiet reflection spaces; and
• Improved pedestrian and vehicle access to the Supreme Court.

By cooling, greening and revitalising the Darwin the CBD, the Territory Government is creating an attractive capital city that will bring the further economic benefits of:

• Enhanced tourism outcomes through development of high-quality of tourism experiences;
• Retail benefits in the CBD, including increased foot traffic and attraction of new business investment;
• Employment benefits; and
• Industry development benefits.

Another positive aspect of greening and cooling the city centre is the environment aspects of curbing carbon abatement and air pollution, along with heat mitigation.

To view the Central Heart fly through visit https://dipl.nt.gov.au/projects/civic-and-state-square-masterplan

Quotes attributed to the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler:

“Every great city has a lively and activated city centre, and the Civic and State Square Masterplan is a stunning representation of our city’s great potential.

“This landmark initiative will be a key driver in revitalising our CBD and making it a much loved destination for visitors, attracting new residents and encouraging broader investment. This is also a boost to local business and a boost for local jobs.

“The redevelopment of Civic and State Square will provide more opportunities for local businesses to be involved and create local jobs in our community, while also creating a pipeline of work throughout the design, consultancy and construction stage.”

Quotes attributed to the Member for Port Darwin, Paul Kirby:

“We’re continuing to build more open, green spaces for Territorians to enjoy across the CBD.  Whether you’re there for an event or just to enjoy a quiet stroll, this will be a fantastic space for everyone.”

“It is our priority to support Territory businesses by creating more local jobs and boosting the number of visitors coming into our CBD."