The transformation of Darling Harbour will reach another milestone tomorrow when Tumbalong Park reopens to the public, just in time for Christmas and the summer holidays.
The park has been off limits since May as part of Darling Harbour’s $3.4 billion redevelopment, which includes construction of the new convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct – ICC Sydney.
Minister for Transport and Infrastructure Andrew Constance said visitors will be able to enjoy a revitalised park with more green, open space.
“From tomorrow, people visiting Sydney will be able to experience a brand new Tumbalong Park, with new turf laid, open space levelled and pathways reconfigured for easier movement around the precinct,” Mr Constance said.
“Fred the Fig – a 100+ year old tree – which has been kept safe behind the hoardings while works progressed, will also be back for people to enjoy.
“The return of Tumbalong Park is just a taste of things to come. Once the 20-hectare transformation of Darling Harbour is complete, an additional hectare of open space will be provided, including new water features for children’s play and an outdoor gym.
“Opening in December 2016, ICC Sydney will cement Sydney as the number one place to visit and do business, offering an integrated range of world class event and entertainment spaces.
“A new 20 metre wide pedestrian boulevard will run north-south through the precinct, connecting all parts of ICC Sydney and linking the Darling Harbour waterfront with the south of the city and Central Station.
“New east-west connections, called Tumbalong Place and Harbourside Place, will also connect with the western side of the city, linking to the light rail stations and creating a new pulse for Pyrmont and Ultimo.
“This major infrastructure project is re-energising Sydney in so many ways, and will provide a massive boost to the liveability of our city and to our economy now and into the future.
