Search is on to design new City of Darwin civic centre

City of Darwin’s new $30m town hall project has moved another step closer. Read what’s envisaged.

City of Darwin is seeking expressions of interest for its proposed $30m civic centre upgrade.

With the EOI precess due to close in February, the council is open to suggestions about the best form of delivery, including private developers and investment.

Chief executive Simone Saunders said City of Darwin wanted input from developers eager to play a role in shaping the city’s future.

“The redeveloped Civic Centre would be a place for the people of Darwin, where they can visit, connect with others and engage in community and business activities and events,” Ms Saunders said.

The Tree of Knowledge at City of Darwin chambers. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

“The existing Civic Centre has served the community well for more than 50 years, but is now unserviceable and a redevelopment is required to meet the modern needs of the community.”

The re-development will be on its current site that links to the CBD, Waterfront, and the new State Square and NT Art Gallery.

Submitted EOIs should include City of Darwin office and meeting spaces, a library and town hall.

Design concepts and images are not required at this stage.

Ms Saunders said proposals must also ensure Galamarrma, the Tree of Knowledge, is protected, as well as re-establishing a visual and social connection to the unique landmark.

The proposal should include the provision of 300 carparking spaces for council and public parking.

Proposed private developments will need to provide for all planning approval requirements within their proposal, including carparking.

City of Darwin chambers. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

Ms Saunders said the EOI marked the first phase of the two-stage procurement process.

The second stage will involve the shortlisting of proponents, followed by a deeper exploration of the proposals.

“The Civic Centre redevelopment presents a unique opportunity to partner with City of Darwin to contribute to the growth and vibrancy of Darwin’s city centre,” Ms Saunders said.

“City of Darwin does not have a predetermined vision of what the new Civic Centre development will look like, with designs to be developed in later stages of the procurement process.

“By fostering collaboration with private developers and investors, City of Darwin aims to create a dynamic urban space that reflects the needs and aspirations of the community.”

The EOI process closes on Thursday, February 22, 2024.

For more information and to download the EOI visit tenderlink.com/darwin