George Street is one of Parramatta’s key civic streets, providing a central connection that ties together important heritage destinations with significant sites such as the future Metro West and Civic Link.
Located in the heart of Parramatta CBD, George Street runs parallel to the Parramatta River between the historical Tudor Gatehouse in the West, and James Ruse Drive in the East. Parramatta Square and the transport hub sit to the south.
Dating back to 1790, George Street (then known as High Street) formed as a major road in the original town planning of Parramatta and spanned approximately 61m in width.
As the region expanded and due to the boundary imposed by the river, the street was narrowed to its current 20m in 1811[1].
At present George Street is still home to a number of outstanding historical sites of European influence including the Georgian townhouse, Harrisford (1823), a convict built barrel drain (1820s), St Patricks Inn (1823), Perth House and Stables (1841), The Roxy Theatre (1930) and the Former Bank of NSW (1938).
With strong ties to the Dharug peoples as traditional custodians of the land, historical artefacts of Aboriginal heritage continue to be uncovered.
This project seeks to provide upgrades to the streetscape and revitalise the historical nature of George Street, Parramatta through heritage interpretation.
Reference [1]: https://www.dcceew.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/parramatta-report.pdf
Purpose of this consultation
The purpose of this consultion is to gather information from the community about the proposed Objectives and Design Principles (see below).
Enhance the cultural and historical identity of George Street
The Master Plan is designed to honour the cultural and historical significance of George Street, establishing a strong link to the past.
From the Burramattagal Clan, the traditional custodians of the land, to the early settlers who laid out Parramatta's street grid in 1791, the area is steeped in rich history that deserves acknowledgement, integration, and celebration. The Master Plan focuses on identifying opportunities to thoughtfully weave this history into the streetscape through art, interpretation, and design.
Improve the quality of the public domain
The Master Plan aims to enhance the quality of the public domain, create a welcoming atmosphere and contribute to greater liveability and commercial vitality.
This will be achieved through cohesive design: consistent street furniture, paving, lighting, planting and signage. Further improvements could include upgrades to public transport stops and the shop facades and awnings.
Increase canopy coverage and urban biodiversity
The Master Plan aims to expand canopy cover along George Street. Beyond cooling the city, the introduction of new trees will enhance urban biodiversity, provide habitat and make the street more attractive now and in the future.
The tree planting strategy will focus on predominantly native species. Trees will be carefully positioned to avoid existing infrastructure and any potential archeological sites.
A pedestrian prioritised streetscape
Widening the footpath along George Street may not be practical, however, this Master Plan aims to create a smooth, hazard-free and accessible pathway with uniform paving to significantly improve the pedestrian experience.
Other improvements such as consolidating infrastructure to reduce clutter, and installing clear signage, will support this goal.
What do you think of the objectives and design principles described above? To have your say and to share your priorities for George Street, Parramatta, please complete the online survey.
