Designs Unveiled For Sydney’s New $150 Million “Town Hall Square”

The City of Sydney has unveiled new designs for “Town Hall square”, a $150 million civic square in the heart of the CBD. The square promises to be a “contemporary plaza” opposite Town Hall, one surrounded by a curved grove of Australian natives where the public can gather.

“The design is tailored to our environment and culture and will be a uniquely Sydney square,” said Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore, “a contemporary public space, with circular paving patterns and water elements that connect seamlessly with adjacent historic buildings and George Street. 

“The impressive canopy of native trees as well as ample seating will ensure this is a wonderful place to stop and linger, to meet people or have a bite to eat.”

Town Hall Square As An Economic Investment

Of the controversial plan that will require the bulldozing of seven buildings, Moore has said it is not simply a quality of life improvement, but an investment in Sydney’s economic and cultural life.

“Like other major cities around the world, we need large, lively, welcoming civic spaces for the growing number of people living in and visiting Sydney,” Moore said. 

Moore added she intends for the square to be utilised “day and night”, hosting gatherings, activations, markets, concerts, sporting events, festivals, and celebrations, among other large events. 

“Cities change and must evolve to thrive economically and socially,” said Moore. “Town Hall square is essential and exciting new infrastructure that will bring energy and fresh investment to the heart of the city.

“You only need to look at the successful revitalisation of George Street to see how more space for people boosts a city, with room to move, meet, eat and shop.”

Sacha Coles, Global Design Director at ASPECT Studios, the project’s landscaping partner, has spoken on the new designs.

“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,” said Coles. “The tree canopy will light up and ensure the square is safe and welcoming.”

Margy Osmond, Chief Executive Officer of the Tourism & Transport Forum, has added that having an iconic square will attract investment and visitation, giving surrounding businesses and Sydney’s tourism economy a boost.

A development application for Town Hall square will be lodged in the coming months, after which the community will be able to weigh in on the design. Council has committed to giving the square a First Nations name. Demolition is expected to start in 2028, with the square’s completion slated for 2031.