Naming plans for 5 Parramatta Square continue with council

After lacklustre naming options, it’s back to the drawing board to name a striking red public building which has been dubbed the ‘starship enterprise’ in the $3.2 billion Parramatta Square project.

Public backlash over the lack of naming options for the $130 million 5 Parramatta Square has meant a title for the conspicuous red building, which will house a library, community hall and council chambers, remains in limbo.

Parramatta Council’s shortlist of names — The Civic and Civic Place — failed to win public support during consultation and will now be redirected to a consultant to offer more titles.

Online submissions drew several negative comments with 273 respondents opposing Civic Place and The Civic even more unpopular with 327 objections.

“In general, community sentiment was negative,’’ a council report said.

An artist's impression of the $180 million 5 Parramatta Square, which will be built next to the Town Hall.

“Respondents were disappointed with the limited options presented and council’s inability to include names that honour the traditional owners, as well as names that inspire and that are unique to Parramatta.’’

A consultant will now provide suggestions to councillors who will also have a chance to offer feedback into the six-storey building.

“I don’t know what they could come up with but hopefully we can get a resolution about this and get it finished,’’ Parramatta Lord Mayor Bob Dwyer said.

“It has to be something people click on to.’’

Councillor Patricia Prociv said there was already a Civic Arcade at Parramatta and hopes the name will be a succinct 5PS.

“It’s simple, it’s descriptive and it’s not confusing with anything else in the city,’’ she said.

Construction started on the Manuelle Gautrand-designed building, dubbed the “starship enterprise” a year ago and it is due to be complete in April.

It will also house the Discovery Centre for interactive displays and exhibitions, indigenous objects, cultural programs and a research lab, and the Urban Living Room (the lobby) will feature a cafe and space for performances.

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