An artist’s impression of what the Acton Waterfront neighbourhood could look like. Image: ACT Government.
The ACT Government is moving to the next planning phase for the development of an urban neighbourhood at West Basin, with a six-week public consultation period seeking community input on the proposed design of the waterfront precinct.
The consultation builds on design engagement undertaken in 2022-23, which helped shape the current design approach and draft principles.
For the past two years, consultant Indesco has also been leading the planning and design of the proposed mixed-use precinct, including devising an Estate Development Plan and land release strategy.
It will also provide a financial analysis of development options, a costing of a staging plan and a business case to be submitted with a Works Approval to the National Capital Authority.
The eventual proposal for a new precinct will likely require a change to the National Capital Plan.
The consultation follows the completion of lake reclamation and the construction of the new boardwalk and temporary park. Construction is set to start next year on Ngamawari, a new public park.
The government says the proposed design aims to ensure the neighbourhood is both economically and environmentally sustainable, featuring active streets, public spaces, diverse housing, and climate-responsive design.
The government aims to enhance everyday life along the waterfront by introducing a mix of homes, shops, parks, and community spaces.
It aims to enhance active travel connections between the city centre and the waterfront, setting a high benchmark for environmental performance and liveability in Canberra.
The consultation page states that the government is seeking a density of approximately 330 people per hectare, more diverse housing options, and is considering planning rule changes to prevent overshadowing and reduced sunlight in public areas and apartments.
It states that a mix of slender, tall, and shorter buildings would allow sunlight to reach street level and create light-filled spaces.
Building heights are proposed that create a lively precinct, with lower structures near parks and open spaces and taller buildings near Commonwealth Avenue and the future light rail stop.
It also wants changes that would strengthen the connection between the waterfront and the City Centre.
The Acton Waterfront neighbourhood is seen as a place for people.
Developing the former carparks has been a contentious issue, with arguments that all the West Basin land should be retained for public use as parkland and/or community space.
There have also been concerns that multi-unit buildings may interfere with or obstruct the vistas of Parliament, Lake Burley Griffin, and the Brindabellas.
Previous planning work has acknowledged these concerns.
ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the Acton Waterfront was an important project to link the expanding city centre to the lake.
“The new boardwalk, completed in 2022, and the new Ngamawari park, which will commence construction next year, have been about building amenities to activate the lakefront and make it more inviting for people,” he said.
“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.
“We know 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. This feedback will help to refine the design principles that will inform our next stages of planning.”
City Renewal Authority CEO Craig Gillman said Acton Waterfront was about creating a neighbourhood that felt 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,” he said.
“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.”
Community workshops and an online panel will be held throughout November and December, as well as an online survey.
To learn more, visit YourSay.
