Canberra waterfront set to be transformed into urban park

The National Capital Authority has approved designs to transform the Lake Burley Griffin waterfront at Acton into a people-focused urban park by a consortium led by Aspect Studios.

To be named Ngamawari after the Ngunnawal word meaning "cave place," the park's design will raise the visibility of the territory's First Nations history. The name was chosen by the local Ngunnawal community in recognition of the cultural significance of the limestone caves that were flooded in construction of Lake Burley Griffin. The caves were important landmarks for shelter, art, and women's business along the Molonglo River.

The park will provide opportunities to learn about Ngunnawal history and culture, with native plantings, bush tucker gardens, and a Ngunnawal-themed nature play area. The park will also include spaces for events, markets, exhibitions, community gatherings and activities with a community plaza, landscaped areas, public barbecues, shelters and toilets.

City Renewal Authority is now tendering for a lead consultant (landscape architect) and consultancy team to detail the design for construction.

"Ngamawari will be a new destination park visited and valued by all Canberrans, and contribute greatly to our vision of making Canberra's City Centre a great place to live, work and visit," said Malcolm Snow, CEO of City Renewal Authority.

"The design created in partnership with the community honours the Traditional Custodians, and elevates sustainability, accessibility and inclusion, active travel, and integration with public transport throughout the future park."