Sydney Square’s $35m upgrade paves the way for a transforming city

New paving, seating and lighting will revitalise the tired square between Sydney Town Hall and St Andrew’s Cathedral, as the transformation of public space across the city centre continues.

The City of Sydney will begin work on the $35 million upgrade of Sydney Square and its surrounding public areas in 2027.

Lord Mayor of Sydney Clover Moore said the upgrade will create a unique space just off George Street to host events one day and provide a quiet lunch spot another.

“The transformation of this somewhat dull space into a lively square between two important heritage buildings, including the beautifully restored Sydney Town Hall, is a natural extension of our newly pedestrianised George Street boulevard,” the Lord Mayor said.

"This square is not meeting its potential and its retro pebblecrete surface is at odds with the quality granite paving throughout the city’s new civic spine.

“Revitalising Sydney Square is yet another solid step in our quest to put public space at the heart of our city.

“Cities around the world have large civic spaces where people come together to celebrate and mourn. We need more places where people can gather, whether it’s to meet friends, attend an outdoor market or protest.

“And with new transport hubs bringing thousands more people into this precinct each day, we also need functional space for commuters to get around the city on foot.”

Originally created in the 1970s, Sydney Square is bound by George, Druitt, Kent and Bathurst streets.

Creating opportunities for events at Sydney Town Hall and St Andrew’s Cathedral to spill out into the square, its transformation will also improve links to the light rail, Town Hall arcade, Town Hall station, planned Metro stops and the future Town Hall Square.

A decades-long dream of a generous, new public square on the other side of the George Street light rail tracks is also another step closer to reality.

Last month the City of Sydney Council voted to set up a reserve fund for further land acquisition and construction of Town Hall Square.

Framed by George, Park and Pitt streets, Council committed to start building work on the 5,600 square metre space by 2040.

For media enquiries contact Roxanne Macara. Phone 0438 554 640 or email [email protected]

For interviews with Lord Mayor Clover Moore, phone 02 8974 4165 or email [email protected]