Thanks to $20 million from the Territory Labor Government, Darwin’s CBD is one-step closer to being a cooler and more attractive space with the State Square Underground Car Park now complete and open to the public.
Offering 450 car parking spaces, including six electric vehicle charging stations, bike rack facilities, and the added benefit of a cyclone shelter in times of need, the new facility has much to offer Territorians.
This new three-level underground car park was built by local company Tomazos Group, which has supported more than 280 local jobs. It also includes solar panels on the entryway to offset electricity costs used by the car park.
Around 300 existing heat-generating surface car parks will be relocated underground to allow for the next stage of the State Square Masterplan Redevelopment, which will unlock further cool, green spaces for the whole community — families, friends and tourists — to enjoy through activated spaces.
The State Square overhaul is a critical part of the historic $200 million Darwin City Deal, delivered in partnership with the City of Darwin and the Australian Government. Work on the Masterplan Redevelopment is continuing with the Chan Building demolition tender currently out to market.
The landscaping above the car park has also started, which will see native trees and plants like the Boab, Ghost Gums, Weeping Tea Trees, and Mataranka Fan Palms included because of their tolerance to local NT weather conditions. Work is expected to be completed mid-2020.
Existing precinct car park users will transition into the new facility in the coming weeks.
