Heart of Parramatta to undergo transformation with unveiling of plans for ‘iconic’ water feature

PARRAMATTA Square is set to undergo a major “green” transformation with new gardens and water features under a $35 million revamp announced today.

Parramatta Square artist impression for new development.

A FOUNTAIN and a winding water stream are planned for the heart of Parramatta under a $35 million upgrade announced this week.

The new draft design ­includes outdoor reading rooms for the library, tall trees in a garden setting, play areas, artworks, outdoor dining and opportunities for night-time events.

Part of the bigger $2 billion redevelopment of the Parramatta Square, the centrepiece of the revamp is a stream that could include running water, a shallow curtain, mist or spray.

Artist impression of the Parramatta Square redevelopment.

Public feedback is being sought on the design, following a vote of endorsement by Parramatta Council on Monday night.

Lord Mayor Scott Lloyd said the key element was the central fountain and watercourse running through the 10,000 sq m space north of Parramatta Station.

“As a river city, Parra­matta has a long and well-established connection with water and this design pays tribute to that, with a water feature that lends itself to a variety of different interpretations,” he said.

Artist's impression of the redevelopment of Parramatta square.

Architects and designers put together the concept following feedback from the public showing a clear rejection of any more “large continuous expanses of hard pavement”.

Residents and shoppers also called on “softer, greener” spaces and preferred a civic area made up of multiple smaller spaces.

Artist's impression of the redevelopment of Parramatta square at evening time.

Expected to be completed by 2019, the changes, including display gardens, extensive tree planting and a new Town Hall lobby, will be carried out in stages, a council spokeswoman said.

Proposed design from Parramatta Council for the redevelopment.

Danish architect Professor Jan Gehl, who has worked with the council on the project, said the heart of the city was a key condition to creating a thriving urban community.

“Parramatta Square will become the new urban heart of a diverse and changing face of Parramatta,” he said.

The deadline for commenting on the proposed redevelopment is October 30, further information can be found at: parracity.nsw.gov.au/on_exhibition.

Draft design for community comment about Parramatta Square.