Five rival designs for new Western Sydney ‘Central Park’

Five Australian landscape architecture practices have been shortlisted in a competition to design a two-hectare park in a new city development near the proposed Western Sydney Airport.

Arcadia Landscape Architecture, Aspect Studios, Hassell Studio, TCL, and Turf Design Studio are vying for the opportunity to create the "jewel in the crown" for Bradfield City Centre - a key arrival point for the development, and an important arts and culture hub.

Western Sydney Parklands Authority chair Jennifer Westacott said, "Investment in public spaces is important because a well-designed public space brings people and importantly businesses in, boosting the economic value of everything around it.

"Central Park is important to Bradfield City Centre because for many, it will be the first impression they have of Australia when they arrive from Western Sydney International Airport. It also needs to be a beautiful and functional space for visitors, workers and residents to gather, to play or rest and act as the perfect backdrop for performances and pop-up events."

The competing design teams will be consulting with Traditional Custodians throughout the competition process.

"As the principal gathering place with a strong identity celebrating First Nations people, recognizing culture and connection to Country, it was vital the Central Park design tells the stories of Country," Westacott continued.

The competition will be judged by a jury that comprises James Corner (New York City's High Line landscape architect), Abbie Galvin (NSW government architect), Kate Lucraft (Fluminis Design Advisory Services), Libby Gallagher (Gallagher Studio) and Clarence Slockee (Jiwah, and presenter on Gardening Australia).

"This is not just landscape, planting, and greening. Central Park will have significant cultural, economic, and environmental value," said juror James Corner.

Bradfield City Centre is set to become Australia's newest city, with the construction of the first building underway. Central Park is expected to be complete in late 2026.