Canberrans are invited to help shape the next stage of planning for the Acton Waterfront precinct, a lakeside neighbourhood that will link the city centre with Lake Burley Griffin.
The ACT Government says the project aims to create a more connected and livelier lakefront, with homes, shops, public spaces, and parkland.
“We’re now in the early planning stages for how more people will live, work and enjoy this space – transforming it into a liveable and well used precinct that links the city centre to the lake and is better connected by light rail and active travel options,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
The government has opened community consultation until 17 December on the design principles that will guide the development of the precinct.
The proposed principles aim to ensure the neighbourhood is economically and environmentally sustainable, with active streets, public spaces, diverse housing, and climate-responsive design.
City Renewal Authority CEO Craig Gillman said the goal was to create “a neighbourhood that feels like Canberra. Open, sustainable and welcoming, but with the energy of city life right by the lake.
“We want people to imagine what it will be like to live, work or relax here. To dine by the water at new bars and restaurants, take the kids for a play, or walk home from the city through a shady, tree-lined street.
This consultation is our chance to make sure the design reflects what Canberrans value most.”
Feedback will help planners decide how the precinct can:
- brings everyday life to the waterfront through a mix of homes, shops, parks and community spaces
- improves active travel connections between the City Centre and the waterfront; and
- sets a high benchmark for environmental performance and liveability in Canberra.
“There is strong support for more community use of this part of our city, and through this consultation we want to hear what amenity people would like to see built in the precinct,” Mr Barr said.
“This feedback will help to refine the design principles that will inform our next stages of planning.”
The consultation runs until 17 December, with community workshops, an online panel, and on the YourSay website.
