The expansive public square, with its various connected green walkways and spaces, seeks to provide a green and relaxing public space for future workers, residents, visitors, and the general public. Together with Light Rail and Metro projects aimed at reducing traffic, as well as with George Street transformation plans, it is envisioned that Central Square will complement other projects within the area and facilitate a more enjoyable walk between the city centre and Central Station.

Central Square comprises four connected spaces – Central Walk West, Lower Square, Upper Square, and Railway Square. The tree-lined Central Walk West will replace the current Devonshire Street tunnel, providing pedestrian connections between Central Station, George Street, Pitt Street and Quay Street. Similarly, Railway Square will feature tree cover along wider footpaths on the East and West sides of Broadway.

The active Lower Square and quieter Upper Square are designed to complement each other. Lower Square will provide a 24 hour active space with seating and shade next to the heritage brick station buildings, while Upper Square, situated next to the Central Station Grand Concourse, will deliver a link through to Belmore Park, simultaneously creating a relaxing space for users to rest.

Together with Light Rail and Metro projects, the precinct will enable the realisation of an integrated transport connection that includes public spaces for users to relax and tree-lined linkages for pedestrians. (Image: City of Sydney)
Image: Together with Light Rail and Metro projects, the precinct will enable the realisation of an integrated transport hub that includes public spaces for users to relax and tree-lined connections for pedestrians. (Image: City of Sydney)

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said that Central Square is an exciting opportunity for a public square within the upcoming high-tech precinct. The square is intended to be one of three major public spaces connected by a “people-friendly spine along George Street”, providing a safe and comfortable space for users.

“It’s an idea that will underpin Tech Central and give identity and space to the city as a whole,” the Lord Mayor said.

“High quality public open space is essential for our global city and good for our economy, environment and wellbeing. By creating wonderful public spaces, we ensure Sydney is an attractive place for businesses, residents and visitors.”

City of Sydney will work with the NSW Government, including Transport for NSW, to realise the vision for this public square that will be a key aspect of the Central Precinct renewal project. Known as Tech Central, the project aims to establish an innovation and technology precinct near Central Station, with a revitalised transport interchange and improved public transport connections at its core. Home to start-ups, scale-ups and innovation ecosystem partners, the 24 Ha precinct will deliver 250,000 sqm of commercial space, create jobs as well as facilitate an environment for innovation and collaboration. A number of significant projects have been planned, including the new Atlassian headquarters and the $2.5b Central Place Sydney project, designed by Fender Katsalidis in collaboration with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.

Cover Image: The vision of Central Square consists of various spaces suited for different activities, as well as connected walkways, thus providing green, safe and comfortable spaces for pedestrians and the public. (Image: City of Sydney)