Commonwealth Coat of Arms of Australia

National Capital Plan 1990 (December 1990)

made under the

Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act 1988

Compilation No. 30

Compilation date: 21 March 2024

Includes amendments: F2024L00360

Registered: 1 May 2024

This compilation is in 4 volumes

Volume 1: [Introduction, Governance, Part One–Part Four]

Volume 2: [Part Four(A) 4.0–4.6]

Volume 3: [Part Four(A) 4.7–4.10]

Volume 4: [Part Four(A) 4.11–4.22, Part Four(B) 4.23–4.28, Appendices A
 and B and Endnotes]

Each volume has its own contents

About this compilation

This compilation

This is a compilation of the National Capital Plan 1990 (December 1990) that shows the text of the law as amended and in force on 21 March 2024 (the compilation date).

The notes at the end of this compilation (the endnotes) include information about amending laws and the amendment history of provisions of the compiled law.

Uncommenced amendments

The effect of uncommenced amendments is not shown in the text of the compiled law. Any uncommenced amendments affecting the law are accessible on the Register (www.legislation.gov.au). The details of amendments made up to, but not commenced at, the compilation date are underlined in the endnotes. For more information on any uncommenced amendments, see the Register for the compiled law.

Application, saving and transitional provisions for provisions and amendments

If the operation of a provision or amendment of the compiled law is affected by an application, saving or transitional provision that is not included in this compilation, details are included in the endnotes.

Editorial changes

For more information about any editorial changes made in this compilation, see the endnotes.

Modifications

If the compiled law is modified by another law, the compiled law operates as modified but the modification does not amend the text of the law. Accordingly, this compilation does not show the text of the compiled law as modified. For more information on any modifications, see the Register for the compiled law.

Self‑repealing provisions

If a provision of the compiled law has been repealed in accordance with a provision of the law, details are included in the endnotes.

 

 

 

Contents

PART FOUR(A) – PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES FOR DESIGNATED AREAS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NATIONAL LAND OUTSIDE DESIGNATED AREAS.....1

Explanatory Statement.................................................1

4.0 Designated Areas...............................................2

4.1 The Central National Area.........................................5

4.2 THE PARLIAMENTARY ZONE AND ITS SETTING..........................11

PRECINCT CODES.......................................................14

4.3 PARLIAMENTARY ZONE PRECINCT CODE...............................14

4.4 BARTON PRECINCT CODE..........................................28

4.5 DEAKIN/FORREST RESIDENTIAL AREA PRECINCT CODE....................52

4.6 CITY HILL PRECINCT CODE.........................................66

 

List of figures

Figure 12: Designated Areas precincts........................................4

Figure 13: The Parliamentary Zone Precinct location.............................15

Figure 14: Land use for the Parliamentary Zone Precinct.........................20

Figure 15: Parliamentary Zone ‑ Formation of campuses....................22

Figure 16: Parliamentary Zone ‑ Indicative development plan................27

Figure 17: Barton Precinct location..........................................29

Figure 18: Land use for the Barton Precinct....................................31

Figure 19: York Park Masterplan – Indicative development plan.....................38

Figure 20: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (1)..........................39

Figure 21: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (2).........................40

Figure 22: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (3)..........................41

Figure 23: Section 9 Barton – Indicative building height and form....................47

Figure 24: Section 9 Barton – Indicative active frontages..........................48

Figure 25: Section 9 Barton – Indicative parking and access........................49

Figure 26: Section 9 Barton – Indicative street sections...........................49

Figure 27: Section 9 Barton – Indicative landscape/streetscape....................50

Figure 28: Section 9 Barton – Indicative pedestrian links..........................51

Figure 29: Deakin Forrest Residential Area Precinct location........................53

Figure 30: Land use for the Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct.....................55

Figure 31: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct ‑ Indicative block amalgamation and
access...............................................................58

Figure 32: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct ‑ Building envelopes and setbacks..59

Figure 33: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative development plan for
State Circle...........................................................61

Figure 34: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative elevation for State Circle......61

Figure 35: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative cross section for State Circle....61

Figure 36: Block 10 Section 13 Forrest ‑ General design principles.............64

Figure 37: Block 10 Section 13 Forrest ‑ Indicative edge cross sections..........65

Figure 38: City Hill Precinct location.........................................66

Figure 39: Land use for the City Hill Precinct...................................68

Figure 40: City Hill – Indicative development..................................70

Figure 41: City Hill – City Hill Park as a central open space.........................71

Figure 42: City Hill – Indicative building form, height and landmark buildings...........72

Figure 43: City Hill – Indicative avenue connection and vistas.......................74

Figure 44: City Hill – Indicative road hierarchy..................................75

Figure 45: City Hill – Indicative public transport.................................76

Figure 46: City Hill – Indicative laneways......................................77

Figure 47: City Hill – Indicative pedestrian links.................................78

Figure 48: City Hill – Indicative street cross section (Constitution Avenue to City Hill
Park)................................................................78

Figure 49: City Hill – Indicative street cross sections..............................79

Figure 50: City Hill – Indicative Vernon Circle..................................80

Figure 51: Artist’s impression of Vernon Circle.................................80

Figure 52: City Hill – Indicative development (an aerial perspective looking northwest towards the National Triangle.....81

Figure 53: City Hill – An artist’s impression of City Hill Park looking towards the National Triangle.....82

 

PART FOUR(A) – PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES FOR DESIGNATED AREAS AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR NATIONAL LAND OUTSIDE DESIGNATED AREAS

Part Four(a) sets out conditions for those areas where the Commonwealth has planning approval responsibility. This includes both Designated Areas and National Land outside Designated Areas. Part Four(a) consists of:

Designated Areas (identified in Part One of the Plan) are divided into a series of precincts. Precinct Codes and General Codes identify planning and design controls for different precincts and development types within Designated Areas. An application for works approval will be assessed against the provisions of the relevant code(s).

Precinct Codes provide objectives, and planning and design controls for defined spatial areas.

General Codes provide detailed controls for particular aspects of development or types of development.

Where inconsistencies exist between provisions of applicable Codes, Precinct Codes take precedence over General Codes.

Each identified precinct within the Central National Area, with the exception of Canberra Airport which is subject to a Master Plan under other legislation, is subject to a Precinct Code.

The Inner Hills forms part of Designated Areas, however is also part of the broader Hills, Ridges and Buffer Spaces land use category of the National Capital Open Space System (NCOSS). In treating Hills, Ridges and Buffer Spaces as a whole, provisions for the Inner Hills are located with other policies for this area in Part Three of the Plan.

Development within the Central National Area as defined in this part is also guided by a series of general principles (derived from ‘The Griffin Legacy Propositions’) and detailed conditions of planning, design and development applicable to all precincts within the Central National Area.

The Act makes provision for the Plan to set out Special Requirements for the development of any area (not being within Designated Areas), being requirements that are desirable in the interests of the National Capital. In addition to areas of Territory Land (refer Part Four(b)), Special Requirements apply to National Land outside Designated Areas.

Figure 12 identifies each precinct within Designated Areas. Precincts numbered 1‑15 and Canberra Airport form the Central National Area.

Map showing the location of each precinct subject to detailed planning control by the National Capital Authority.

Map showing the location of the 16 precincts within the Designated Areas.

Figure 12: Designated Areas precincts

Detailed conditions of planning, design and development for each precinct are set out in a series of Precinct Codes. General policies are also applicable to the Central National Area and the Parliamentary Zone and its setting (as defined below).

The Central National Area includes the following Precincts:

  1. Parliamentary Zone
  2. Barton
  3. Deakin/Forrest Residential Area
  4. City Hill
  5. West Basin
  6. Constitution Avenue and Anzac Parade
  7. Australian Defence Force Academy, Royal Military College Duntroon, and Campbell Park Precinct
  8. Australian National Botanic Gardens
  9. Jerrabomberra Wetlands
  10. Lake Burley Griffin and Foreshores
  11. Acton Peninsula
  12. Diplomatic Precinct (Yarralumla, Deakin, O’Malley and Curtin)
  13. Australian Institute of Sport
  14. Australian National University
  15. CSIRO Black Mountain
  16. Canberra Airport (within the Central National Area however not within Designated Areas).

Main Avenues and Approach Routes are subject to a Precinct Code as they are within Designated Areas, but are not part of the Central National Area.

Development in the Central National Area will be guided by the principles below. The principles direct future public and private investment in core areas of the capital where opportunities are created for vibrant, mixed use precincts alongside cultural institutions, government buildings and major national attractions. They restore the intended urbanity and vitality of Canberra as a cosmopolitan lakeside city.

The following general policies will form a basis for planning and urban design decisions for the Central National Area, its landscape setting and approaches. These include:

1. Protect the Griffins’ vision by:

  1. fostering recognition of the 1918 Griffin Plan as a work of national and international cultural significance, and conserve those elements that contribute to this significance in a sustainable manner whilst allowing for the evolution of the city in contemporary terms
  2. recognising that Canberra is a young city and ensure that future development continues to give expression to the visual geometry, built form, landscape and cultural vitality of the 1918 Griffin Plan
  3. recognising that some elements (for example, the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House) are successful reinterpretations of the 1918 Griffin Plan which are consistent with and strengthen the framework and spirit of the Plan.

2. Building on the Griffins’ vision by:

  1. maintaining the 1918 Griffin Plan as the primary organising framework of the city’s urban form, landscape and symbolism
  2. fostering Canberra’s unique sense of place that has evolved from the Griffins’ planning principles
  3. maintaining the Garden City and City Beautiful values which underpin Canberra’s quality of life
  4. continuing to give expression to the principles of the 1918 Griffin Plan – its visual geometry, built form, landscape spaces and cultural vitality – in order to maintain its integrity as a work of cultural significance which is internationally recognised
  5. continuing to reinforce and, where possible, express the integrity of the Griffins’ visual structure by strengthening the geometry and form of Main Avenues, vistas and public spaces
  6. refocusing the symbolic framework of the 1918 Griffin Plan by consolidating development of national symbols and spaces for commemoration and celebration on the land and water axes, and within the National Triangle
  7. maintaining the geometry and where practicable the fine‑grain pattern of the streets and blocks of the 1918 Griffin Plan
  8. strengthening the landscape framework from the natural setting of the hills, water courses and parks to the character of its streets as generously‑scaled corridors for formal plantings of broad‑canopy trees
  9. maintaining the metropolitan structure principles of Canberra’s planning legacy of environmentally balanced urban extensions: design with nature; undeveloped hills and valleys; landscape containment and greenbelts; low traffic congestion; long‑term public transport reservations; provision for walking and cycling; and protection of the Central National Area
  10. maintaining a mix of tree species which enriches the landscape by providing beauty, shade, shelter and wildlife habitats and enhances the built environment.

3. Revitalise the vision with growth in the Central National Area by:

  1. reinstating the Griffins’ intended unity between the Central National Area, its setting and the everyday life of the city
  2. delivering the richness and vitality of the Griffins’ vision by ensuring that City and surrounding neighbourhood precincts are strongly connected with the Central National Area, especially with Lake Burley Griffin and its surrounding parks
  3. accommodating growth in Canberra Central to contribute to a compact, sustainable city that fosters a healthy community, and offers: increased housing, employment and recreation choices; ease of movement; integrated transport and land‑use; and respect for the natural environment
  4. developing the central areas of Canberra, such as City and Constitution Avenue, to the urban scale and diversity intended to consolidate the central areas of Canberra.
  5. managing change – particularly in terms of traffic and development – to preserve the historic landscapes, Garden City and City Beautiful values, and the dignity of the Central National Area
  6. using public investment in infrastructure to guide private investment, to enhance the vitality, accessibility and national significance of the public domain of the 1918 Griffin Plan, and to generate economic growth
  7. fostering a greater level of activity, choice, connectivity and accessibility in the central areas of Canberra.

4. Link the city to the Central National Area by:

  1. reducing the physical barriers between the Central National Area, City Centre and surrounding neighbourhood precincts
  2. fostering exchange between local and national activities
  3. harnessing the cultural and economic links between the City Centre and surrounding neighbourhood precincts
  4. facilitating the development of physical connections and urban form to enable greater interaction and exchange between the Australian National University, the Central National Area and City Centre.

5. Extend the City to the Lake by:

  1. developing a variety of waterfront activities on the Lake which are diverse in urban, recreational and ceremonial character and are accessible to the public along the waterfront
  2. enhancing lake‑based tourist facilities and experiences
  3. maintaining and enhancing the ecological integrity of the lake shore through environmental management requirements for any new development adjacent to or on the lake
  4. developing natural drainage corridors as linear parks and pedestrian/cycle paths to connect with the lake parklands.

6. Reinforce the Main Avenues by:

  1. realising the identified Main Avenues of Constitution, Northbourne, Commonwealth, Kings, University, Sydney, Brisbane, and part of Canberra  Avenue as multi‑use boulevards providing corridors of higher‑density mixed‑use development, public transport, broad tree‑lined footpaths with potential for outdoor dining and street parking
  2. preventing the Central National Area from being overwhelmed by through traffic
  3. providing flexible, efficient and sustainable public transport and pedestrian and bicycle systems that reduce car dependency
  4. developing a sufficient density and mix of land uses to support public transport
  5. improving the urban design and streetscape qualities of the Main Avenues as approaches to the Central National Area
  6. maintaining the ease and comfort of movement around the city to cater for a diversity of pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and public transport modes
  7. providing streets with a quality architecture and landscape character that fosters a compact, connective and pedestrian‑friendly environment for central city living
  8. reducing the barriers of major roads to make it easier for people to access the public spaces of the city, particularly in the Central National Area.

7. Link national attractions by:

  1. maintaining the Central National Area as the appropriate setting for the presentation of events, ceremonies and celebrations of national and international significance, so that Australians might better understand their culture and history – and showcase them to the world
  2. consolidating national and international tourism activity in the Central National Area to enhance the visitor experience and appreciation of the symbolic role of Canberra as the National Capital
  3. developing existing and new national cultural attractions to complement the settings of existing memorials and national symbols, and to enhance economic benefits for the Australian Capital Territory community
  4. developing network concepts to link national attractions in the Central National Area, improving legibility and way finding for visitors, and linking existing public domain and transport networks
  5. engaging new cultural and government buildings with the daily life of the city by connecting them to diverse and mixed‑use districts that support a range of public activities, including shopping, dining and entertainment
  6. reinforcing corridors of tourist activity with additional attractions and supportive land uses such as retail, restaurant and hotel developments
  7. protecting and enhancing ecological values of the Central National Area as a site for eco‑tourism
  8. identifying opportunities for developing eco‑tourism activities in the Central National Area, provide connections to the National Capital Open Space System, and reinforce Canberra’s identity and environmental integrity as the ‘Bush Capital’
  9. enhancing the provision of lake and land‑based recreational and tourism opportunities within a predominantly public open space setting
  10. enhancing the sense of arrival for visitors to the National Capital by improving the quality of the approach routes and by progressively formalising the gateway experiences at key city thresholds, culminating in arrival at the Central National Area
  11. enhancing the vistas to the national attractions and icons.
  1. In the Parliamentary Zone (the area bounded by the southern edge of the Lake, Kings Avenue, State Circle and Commonwealth Avenue):
  1. Land uses will comprise:

b.      Development must be guided by the principles, policies and Indicative Development Plan for the Parliamentary Zone set out in the Parliamentary Zone Precinct Code.

2.       Other parts of the Designated Areas will be used in accordance with relevant Precinct Codes.

3.       Land uses will relate primarily to national functions. This should not, however, preclude the establishment of appropriate ACT Government functions, suitably located.

4.       Consideration of commercial uses in those parts of the Designated Area that lie in the City will have regard to the planning effects on City as well as on the Central National Area.

5.       Special consideration will be given to community, cultural, residential, tourism, entertainment and leisure uses which complement and enhance the function and character of the Designated Area.

6.       Traffic capacity and traffic arrangements on major routes in the Designated Area will be planned to ensure safe and dignified access for all ceremonial occasions, and for residents, staff, tourists and visitors.

7.       The transport system within the Designated Area will be planned and managed for volumes of traffic and parking consistent with the significance and use of the area. Transport infrastructure should foster the use of transport systems which minimise adverse effects from vehicular traffic.

8.       The urban design of the area is to achieve an integrated design of the highest quality by managing building height and bulk, and by encouraging building forms and layouts on consistent building alignments which enhance the structure of the Griffins’ plans.

9.       New development should seek to respect the design and character of adjacent buildings in terms of scale, colour, materials, massing and frontage alignment.

10.   Individual development proposals will be assessed on their merits in respect to sunlight penetration, amenity, pedestrian and vehicle access. No buildings taller than RL617 will be permitted in the Designated Area, but the general building height will be 3‑4 storeys except where the National Capital Authority determines otherwise.

11.   Buildings in the area must show an appropriate quality of architectural design consistent with their location in this area of special national importance.

12.   Direct access to and from major roads will be permitted where practicable and not inconsistent with traffic safety requirements. The design and maintenance of all roadways and parking areas, including their associated landscaping, signs and lighting, will be of a consistently high quality.

13.   Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, the avenues connecting the nodal points of the National Triangle, are of critical significance in delineating the geometric form of the Griffins’ plans. They are not only the primary movement routes, but they are powerful generators of structure and urban form. Their formal expression is paramount and is to be achieved by strong avenue planting, consistent road design, special lighting and detailing. Building heights and setbacks will be planned to ensure consistency and continuity. Setbacks for buildings adjacent to Kings and Commonwealth Avenues should generally be 15 metres. Setbacks for buildings adjacent to eastern side of Kings and western side  of Commonwealth Avenues north of Lake Burley Griffin should be 10 metres.

14.   Landscaping is to enhance the visual setting of the Designated Area and integrate the buildings with their landscape setting. This will be carried out in accordance with a landscape masterplan to be prepared by the National Capital Authority which particularly emphasises the following landscape themes:

  1. the formal and consistent landscaping of Main Avenues and mall spaces
  2. the combination of formal and informal landscaping which occurs around the Lake’s edge and is the setting for Parliament House and its adjacent area.
  1. Residential blocks must not be subdivided for separate occupation.
  2. Any proposal to subdivide land within the Central National Area will require the approval of the National Capital Authority.

The Parliamentary Zone and Its Setting comprises the Parliamentary Zone, Diplomatic (Yarralumla), Deakin/Forrest Residential Area, Barton, City Hill, West Basin, and Constitution Avenue and Anzac Parade Precincts.

The National Capital and Seat of Government is the legislative, judicial, administrative, executive, ceremonial and symbolic centre of the nation.

The role of Canberra as the National Capital warrants high environmental and aesthetic standards for development generally. It also requires that national functions are located where they may operate effectively and efficiently.

Areas that clearly exhibit the special characteristics of the National Capital primarily have the Parliamentary Zone and its setting as their focus. They embrace the main National Capital uses and national institutions, and other centrally located areas of National Land, diplomatic areas, and nearby lands where planning, design and development are critical.

The core of those areas is the Parliamentary Zone – the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and the home of the nation’s most important cultural and judicial institutions and symbols.

The area ensures that the essential relationships between Parliament and its setting are planned, developed and conserved in an integrated way, with the Commonwealth providing the requisite leadership of design and ensuring that construction and maintenance operations are carried out to the highest standards.

Urban design is concerned with the arrangement of buildings and spaces to achieve harmony, interest, attractiveness, vitality and legibility. Specific urban design policies are concerned with ensuring that the quality of the built environment results in a composition which is consistent in scale and image.

The subject area is the centre for all the nationally significant activities of Parliament, the Judiciary and government and is the focal point of visitor interest in the National Capital.

A Masterplan for the Parliamentary Zone (refer to the Parliamentary Zone Precinct Code) guides all future development in the Zone.

Within the Parliamentary Zone, the National Capital Authority’s statutory responsibility for the approval of works in Designated Areas does not affect section 5 of the Parliament Act 1974 which provides at subsection (1) that:

no building or other work is to be erected on land within the Parliamentary Zone unless:

caused a proposal for the erection of a building or work to be laid before each House of the Parliament and the proposal has been approved by resolution of each House.

The combined effect of the Act, the Parliament Act 1974 and the Parliamentary Precincts Act 1988, is that within the Parliamentary Zone (which includes the Parliamentary Precincts), Works as defined by the Act require approval by National Capital Authority in addition to any Parliamentary approvals necessary under the other Acts.

Within the Parliamentary Precincts (generally within Capital Circle) the Presiding Officers have responsibility for control and management. In the exercise of this responsibility, any actions falling within the definition of Works set out in the Act continue to require approval by National Capital Authority.

The Plan includes City Hill and the area inside London Circuit as part of the Designated Area. City Hill is one of the three corners of the National Triangle formed by Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, and as such the character of its future development and that of the area adjoining it is crucial to the long‑term character of the National Capital.

Linking City Hill with Russell is Constitution Avenue. The Plan provides for development beside the Avenue which establishes it as a formal urban avenue. Since design issues will be crucial in setting the character of the Avenue, both sides of Constitution Avenue are included in the Designated Areas.

Land fronting the Approach Routes and avenues which were an important symbolic component of the Griffins’ plans is also considered to have special National Capital interest. Special Requirements have been established for these areas.

  1. Canberra’s role as Australia’s capital is of continuing and paramount importance. National functions, organisations and activities are actively encouraged to locate in Canberra. They should be housed and located in prominent positions where they serve, individually and collectively, as effective symbols of the nation and its capital.
  2. Opportunities should be taken progressively to enhance the international role of Canberra as Australia’s capital. Diplomatic representation, the establishment in Canberra of international organisations, and the holding of international events in Canberra are all encouraged as means of enhancing the National Capital’s international role.
  3. The planning and development of the National Capital will seek to respect and enhance the main principles of the Griffins’ formally adopted plan for Canberra.
  4. The Parliamentary Zone and its setting remain the heart of the National Capital. In this area, priority will be given to the development of buildings and associated structures which have activities and functions that symbolise the Capital and through it the nation. Other developments in the area should be sited and designed to support the prominence of these national functions and reinforce the character of the area.
  5. Planning and development of the Territory beyond the Parliamentary Zone and its setting should enhance the national significance of both Canberra and the Territory.
  1. Major national functions and activities that are closely connected with workings of Parliament or are of major national significance should be located in or adjacent to the National Triangle formed by Commonwealth, Kings and Constitution Avenues, to provide a strong physical and functional structure which symbolises the role of Canberra as the National Capital.
  2. The preferred uses in the Parliamentary Zone are those that arise from its role as the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and as the home of the nation’s most important cultural and judicial institutions and symbols. The highest standards of architecture will be sought for buildings located in the Parliamentary Zone.
  3. Diplomatic activities should be established in places which are prestigious, have good access to Parliament House and other designated diplomatic precincts, and meet security requirements. They should be planned and designed to establish a distinct character and setting for each area reflecting their national and international significance.
  4. National and international associations and institutions will be encouraged to locate in Canberra, and whenever practicable the District of Canberra Central will be the preferred location for them.


PRECINCT CODES

The Parliamentary Zone Precinct consists of the Parliamentary Zone, being the eastern side of the Commonwealth Avenue road reserve between State Circle and the southern shore of the Lake, Capital Hill, and the western side of the Kings Avenue road reserve between State Circle and the southern shore of the Lake.

The Parliamentary Zone is the area of land bounded by a line commencing at a point where the eastern boundary of Commonwealth Avenue intersects the inner boundary of State Circle and proceeding thence in a northerly direction along the eastern boundary of Commonwealth Avenue until it intersections the southern shore of the Lake, thence in a generally easterly direction along that shore until it intersects the western boundary of Kings Avenue, thence in a south westerly direction along that boundary until it intersects the inner boundary of State Circle, and thence clockwise around that inner boundary to the point of commencement.

Capital Hill includes the land enclosed by State Circle, and that part of the road reserve of State Circle immediately adjacent to Capital Hill.

Figure 13 illustrates the location of the Parliamentary Zone Precinct.

 

Map showing the location of the Parliamentary Zone Precinct. The precinct area includes Capital Hills and the Parliamentary Zone bound by State Circle, Kings and Commonwealth Avenues and the southern shore of Lake Burley Griffin.

Figure 13: The Parliamentary Zone Precinct location

The Parliamentary Zone Precinct is the physical manifestation of Australian democratic government and the home of the nation’s most importance cultural and judicial institutions and symbols. The Parliamentary Zone is the symbolic heart of the National Capital and is at the geometric centre of the Griffins’ plans for Canberra.

The Parliamentary Zone will be given meaning as the place of the people, accessible to all Australians so that they can more fully understand and appreciate the collective experience and rich diversity of this country.

To do this, the place of the people must reflect:

The place of the people must have:

To realise the Parliamentary Zone as the place of the people it will be important to:

For each of these objectives, stated intentions that will guide all developmental and cultural and physical planning and management are as follows.

Objective

Intention

Balance politics and culture

locate national cultural institutions and key government agencies in the place of the people

facilitate the staging of cultural and political events, activities and ceremonies provide opportunities to recognise Australian endeavour

Welcome people

encourage the diverse population of Australia to visit

provide spaces that are pleasant and sheltered

improve the level of amenity and engender vitality (cafés, events, picnic spaces, etcetera)

establish a program of appropriate events and activities in quality venues

provide visitor‑friendly  public transport and car parking

discourage through‑traffic  and encourage pedestrians and cyclists

make it easy for people to find their destination

Celebrate Australian history and society

create ceremonial and community events that reflect our nation's history, spirit and aspirations

recognise the rich history and contribution of the Indigenous Australian people and of our multicultural society

provide opportunities for people to interpret the role of government, the history of our nation and Australian achievement

foster a sense of affinity and attachment to the National Capital

conserve the unique heritage of the Parliamentary Zone for future generations

Represent Australian excellence

encourage the exemplary use of Australian innovation, creativity and diversity

use Australian materials and craftsmanship

demonstrate sustainable management practices

adopt leading practice design and architecture

Emphasise the importance of the public realm

encourage pedestrian activity

improve the amenity of the open spaces

establish a variety of public spaces that will support a range of activities

establish a hierarchy of public spaces with the Land Axis as the principal space

create a major focus for public representation

provide good signage and interpretative  systems

Make access easy and open

provide a comprehensive system of paths, cycleways and roads

make public spaces safe

ensure that design is barrier free

improve public transport

locate car parks where they are central, safe and secure

establish well signed, convenient routes to major destinations

clearly identify the front entries to buildings

Reinforce the integrity of the visual structure

maintain the integrity and prominence of the Land Axis

symbolically recognise the intersection of the Land Axis and Water Axis

emphasise Commonwealth and Kings Avenues as landscape edges

align buildings normal to the Land Axis and Water Axis and to the Griffins’ proposed terraces

enhance the existing character and quality of the landscape

use lighting to emphasise the organisational structure, buildings and other special features

plant trees to reflect seasonal changes

Strengthen the relationship between buildings and landscape

provide ordered settings and relate buildings of similar functions, using the existing buildings as the focus

locate a central court for each development group

provide clear address and identity for all buildings from the central court

align buildings normal to the Land Axis and Water Axis

establish vistas from the Land Axis to the central development courts

enhance seasonal, day and night landscape settings for buildings

Create a variety of urban spaces

establish a sequence of spaces that range from the Land Axis to the development courts

provide a major focus for public representation and gatherings of national interest

create spaces that will support vibrant activities of discovery and others for reflection or quiet enjoyment

link buildings and places with a legible road and pathway network

Establish comprehensive design management polices for the future

reserve sites for new buildings

plan for a mix of appropriate future functions and land uses

establish a viable financial framework for development and management

provide a defined role for private capital, patronage and sponsorship

develop sustainable environmental management practices

conserve the unique heritage of the Parliamentary Zone for future generations

 

Land use for the Parliamentary Zone should be in accordance with Figure 14.

Drawing showing land use policies for the Parliamentary Zone Precinct. This includes Parliamentary Use for Capital Hills, and National Capital Use for the majority of the Parliamentary Zone. The Lobby restaurant site has a land use of Commercial.

Figure 14: Land use for the Parliamentary Zone Precinct

Permitted land uses for ‘Mixed Use’ are:

Permitted ancillary land uses for ‘Mixed Use’ are:

Identifiable precincts, or campuses, should be created to provide a sensible and flexible rationale for the location of new buildings, public spaces, commemorative works and even some events.

Essentially, the policy is to use the existing buildings as 'anchors' for new development that has a compatible function.  For example, a new government agency could be sited adjacent to either the John Gorton or Treasury buildings, while a new visual arts building could be located near the National Gallery of Australia.  Similarly, any planned extensions to Parliament would be ideally placed on what was Camp Hill between the Old and New Houses of Parliament.

While the existing buildings will determine the character of the functions and uses for each campus, a court, plaza or garden should provide the focus to their layout.  Each building in the campus, existing and new, should have a pedestrian entry fronting the court, and the courts themselves should be developed so that they encourage people to use them for informal lunch time sports, or for celebrations or perhaps protests.

The existing buildings will also influence the architectural and landscape character for each of the campuses.  Urban design guidelines addressing aspects such as form, materials, scale and footprint should ensure that successive development contributes to the integrity of the campus. Gradually this will break the Zone into distinguishable precincts, which in turn will make the Zone more visitor‑friendly.

To ensure that people can move easily between the campuses, the campuses will be connected by paths and vistas created from one central court to the other.  To ensure that people can orientate themselves in the Zone, view corridors from the courts to the Lake or Parliament House will also be established.

Five campuses are to be formed in the Zone, with Parliament House as a sixth, as follows:

The general arrangement of each of these campuses is identified in Figure 15.

Drawing showing the intended arrangement of campuses within the Parliamentary Zone. This includes the Parliamentary Executive Campus around Old Parliament House, the Treasury Campus on the eastern side of the Parliamentary Zone, the John Gorton Campus on the western side of the Parliamentary Zone, the Humanities and Science Campus around the National Library of Australia and Questacon, and the Arts and Civic Campus around the National Gallery of Australia, High Court of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery.

Figure 15: Parliamentary Zone ‑ Formation of campuses

For the place of the people to remain relevant, a balance should be maintained between the working political functions of the seat of Government and the national cultural institutions.   Major shifts in this balance would make the Parliamentary Zone into either a theme park of attractions or an office environment devoid of people outside of working hours.

Permissible land uses include parliamentary uses, appropriate National Capital uses and other uses that enhance the function and character of the area.

In recognition of an anticipated 50‑year timeframe for future developments including buildings, landscapes and associated works, a number of sites within the Parliamentary Zone should be reserved for future use in four main categories:

In the event that Parliament House needs to expand to accommodate growth in its working population, expansion should be directed into the two existing car parks located either side of Federation Mall between East Block and West Block. Buildings should be three storeys in addition to multi‑level basement car parking.

Future growth of government agency functions should be directed into the campuses located around the Treasury and John Gorton buildings. Because they are near the centre of the Parliamentary Zone and house large worker populations, these two campuses should also be the locations for low‑scale structured car parks. The car parks may additionally house future shuttle bus services, as well as limited retail amenities such as dry cleaners, newsagents and flower shops.

Any future expansion of the National Gallery of Australia and the National Archives of Australia should occur on sites adjacent to the present locations of these national institutions.

Any long‑term requirements for new cultural institutions should also be accommodated in the proposed campuses. There are ample new building sites (many currently used for surface parking) associated with the Arts and Civic campus and the Humanities and Science Campus.

The site to the west of the Land Axis and east of Parkes Place West (currently a surface car park) is a high profile site. The site should be reserved for a significant national building and/or a significant national place of special status and interest.

King Edward Terrace should develop a 'mainstream character' over time with intersection changes, additional pedestrian crossings, broader paths and more consistent avenue planting. To reinforce this character, concessions and convenient services for the public should be provided along the Terrace.

Finally, the new focus of public activities in the place of the people, the area adjoining the south side of Queen Elizabeth Terrace on the lake edge and centred on the Land Axis, should provide amenities and facilities such as restaurants, coffee shops, and exhibitions for the public.

Traffic is an important aspect of realising the objectives for the Parliamentary Zone. Commonwealth and Kings Avenues are major traffic routes connecting the north and south of Canberra and both carry large volumes of peak hour traffic. More importantly, commuters travelling to and from City, Barton and Fyshwick use the east‑west roads that go through the Parliamentary Zone, i.e. King Edward, King George and Queen Victoria Terraces.

A disproportionate amount of through‑traffic uses King Edward Terrace and as a consequence there is a number of traffic and pedestrian safety matters.

To assist in ameliorating some of the through‑traffic, a number of improvements to the road layout and design should be introduced progressively. These include:

Direct, sheltered paths connecting major destinations will substantially improve the public realm of the Parliamentary Zone. Encouraging people to leave their cars in one destination and to explore the attractions of the Zone as pedestrians will add to the vibrancy and life of the place of the people.

A legible and consistent path system that connects all the parts of the Parliamentary Zone will be introduced gradually and progressively.

The first paths to be installed should be in the northern part of the Zone, linking King Edward Terrace and the Lake. Linking with the pathways that now terminate at the northern edge of Parkes Place, the new paths should run down each side of the open space that forms the Land Axis to the Lake. Pedestrian crossings are to be provided on King Edward Terrace along these paths at appropriate points to afford a safe pedestrian environment.

In the vicinity of Old Parliament House, the existing perimeter roads should be upgraded through the use of extended paving to enhance pedestrian movement but in a manner that has regard to the conservation values of the historic setting of the building and still capable of meeting the functional requirements of the building. This would give the building an appropriate, dignified setting and create a generous new pedestrian environment. To further connect Old Parliament House with the other parts of the Parliamentary Zone, some form of secondary entry should be created at the rear of the building facing Parliament House.

In association with the paths, cycle access for both commuter and recreational cyclists will be provided. The cycleway network should be linked to the existing system, encouraging access and especially cycling around the Lake.  All major attractions should be similarly connected, and secure facilities for cycle storage should be installed at these locations.

Good orientation and interpretation will help to create a positive first impression and an enjoyable experience for people visiting the Parliamentary Zone and assist their understanding about the National Capital.

A hierarchical signage system to assist people in finding their way around the Parliamentary Zone and reinforce it as a special area is to be produced. The system should include:

This system should ensure continuity in the form of the sign, consistency in message content and easy updating and extension.

Interpretative signs are to be included at commemorative and dedication points and at the entrances to gardens, places and venues. These signs should provide brief notes on the historical background, cultural significance and importance of these places.

Tree planting is fundamental to the enduring design concept of Canberra and to the character and structure of the city. It is the formal tree planting that reflects the ground pattern of roads and formal spaces and establishes their character and beauty.  New planting should be introduced and existing planting strengthened and conserved to attract native birdlife and create shelter, scale, interest and a special character to each of the campuses.

The Land Axis and Commonwealth and Kings Avenues are important elements in making the Parliamentary Zone legible. To maintain the definition of the geometry of the Zone, there must be a long‑term strategy for the replacement of trees.

With its central location, length, width and the stark contrast between the turf and the eucalypts, the Land Axis has a powerful presence in the Parliamentary Zone.  Trees should be replaced and the planting extended where appropriate to preserve the visual strength of the Land Axis.

The tree planting on Commonwealth and Kings Avenues reflects different attitudes to avenue planting over the generations. There is an assortment of native, coniferous and deciduous species that requires rationalisation. The original design intent of the avenue planting – to provide a backdrop of coniferous evergreen trees contrasting with the deciduous trees at the street edge – made the avenues legible in the broader landscape and distinctive throughout the seasons. A consistent approach to replacement tree planting should be undertaken to reinstate this intent.

There are other formal spaces that reflect the Griffins’ Plan with its terracing, and the 1920s road layout. These spaces and streets, which include Parkes Place and Queen Victoria, King George and King Edward Terraces, create a series of important cross axes and lateral spaces. The trees that establish these spaces are a mixture of exotic evergreen and deciduous species.

A consistent approach to replacement planting should be adopted to conserve the clarity and character of these spaces. For example, red autumn foliage along the avenues, with accents of yellow at intersection points, will help to define special routes and places of interest.  The brighter foliage of deciduous trees will also emphasise the major groupings of buildings and offer sun and shade control at various times of the year.

The East‑West promenade between the National Gallery of Australia and the National Library of Australia will create a major new lateral space. Here, tree planting should be used to identify this as a new cross axis mimicking the older tree planting of the avenues.

The Indicative Development Plan at Figure 16 indicates how growth and development is intended to look in the long term.  The Indicative Development Plan should be used to guide all future planning and development in the Parliamentary Zone.

Drawing showing the indicative development plan for the Parliamentary Zone. Key elements of this plan include reinforcing major spaces through tree planting, establishing a hierarchy of roads, creation of campuses and improving continuity in form and consistency of signage to identify sites and direct visitors within the Parliamentary Zone.

Figure 16: Parliamentary Zone ‑ Indicative development plan


The Barton Precinct is bounded by Kings Avenue and the Parliamentary Zone to the north and the edge of Lake Burley Griffin to the east. The southern perimeter runs along Brisbane Avenue, down National Circuit around Sydney Avenue and ends at Canberra Avenue. State Circle and the curtilage of St Andrew’s Church form the western boundary of the precinct.

Figure 17 illustrates the location of the Barton Precinct.

Map showing the loation of the Barton Precinct. The precinct area includes the area bounded by Kings Avenue and the Parliamentary Zone tot he north and the edge of Lake Burley Griffin to the east. The southern perimeter runs along Bridbane Avenue, down National Circuit around Sydvey Avenue and ends at Canberra Avenue. State Circle and the curtilage of St Andrew's church from the western boundary of the precinct.

Figure 17: Barton Precinct location

Barton has long been recognised as a prestigious office location and is characterised by a series of large buildings set in a generous landscape setting. A number of key government agencies are located in the area, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australian Federal Police, Australian National Audit Office, Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Attorney‑General’s Department. Smaller Australian Government agencies and private sector offices (often providing services to government) have also established in Barton.

  1. Ensure the highest standards of architecture for all buildings in the precinct.
  2. Ensure that individual buildings contribute to the coherent definition of streets, blocks and public spaces intended for the Precinct.
  3. Create a legible network of paths and streets and enhance connectivity and accessibility to the Lake.
  4. Encourage a mix of land uses which contribute to the vibrancy, amenity and convenience of the Barton Precinct as an attractive place in which to work and live.
  5. Ensure new development meets leading practice for environmental sustainability including energy efficiency and water sensitive urban design measures.
  6. Ensure development recognises and complements the precinct character; as a major employment centre and area of national importance.
  7. Recognise and reinforce the different streetscapes associated with Kings, Brisbane, and Sydney Avenues, and State Circle.

Land use for the Barton Precinct should be in accordance with Figure 18.

Drawing showing land use policies for the Barton Precinct. This includes a mix of National Capital Use, Offices, Commercial, Open Space, Community Facility, Communications Facility, Residential, and 'Land Use A' which permits mixed use development on a single site.

Figure 18: Land use for the Barton Precinct

A building height limit of RL 591 generally applies to the Barton area. This level corresponds with the level of the parapet walls at all four corners of Parliament Drive and establishes an appropriate limit in terms of creating and maintaining built form relationships to Parliament House when seen from vantage points in and around the Central National Area.

Minor building elements (such as lift overruns and roof plant) that extend building height above RL 591 will be considered where this enhances the architectural quality of the building, and fosters energy efficiency, indoor amenity, appropriate urban scale, and adds visual interest to the skyline. Minor building elements should be carefully integrated within the form of buildings.

Lift overruns, plant rooms and any roof mounted aerials, masts and dishes should be designed and sited to have a low visual impact when viewed from the street or Parliament House.

At Section 1 Barton, buildings up to RL 602, inclusive of plant and roof height, may be considered where they add visual interest to the skyline and are set back from the Main Avenue frontages. Individual consideration will also be given to special vertical elements such as a spire or tower associated with a cathedral building on Block 31 Section 6 Barton.

Buildings should be a minimum of four storeys on the Main Avenue frontages of Kings Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Sydney Avenue.

A high quality of landscape design is sought and mature trees are to be retained wherever possible.

Street trees and other large trees are to be planted in deep‑root soil conditions.

Windsor Walk will be constructed and landscaped to form the main pedestrian spine through the Barton Precinct.

Cycle ways and pedestrian paths will be provided to enable safe and convenient movement and should connect to major peripheral paths.

Pedestrian safety and visual amenity should be secured through traffic calming and appropriate streetscape design.

New development should provide a positive address to pedestrian areas, to provide visual interest, activity and passive surveillance. Blank façades and exposed service areas should generally be avoided.

Opportunities for linking the pedestrian networks of the Barton Precinct with the surrounding areas such as the trail system in the peripheral parklands of Parliament House should be addressed by new developments, particularly in the development of Section 1 Barton.

Promote environmentally sustainable development including increased pedestrian and cycle accessibility and public transport use while reducing dependency on private vehicles.

Public domain works and site infrastructure should be implemented concurrently with new adjoining development.

New developments may be required to provide public infrastructure, including adjacent access roads and landscaped public spaces such as Windsor Walk, in accordance with detailed development requirements set by the National Capital Authority.

The development of York Park and environs is primarily to accommodate prestigious offices requiring proximity to Parliament House. York Park occupies a prominent site in the Central National Area and contributes to the urban form and landscape features which give the National Capital its special character and setting. It forms part of the backdrop and approaches to Parliament House and an edge to the National Triangle at Kings Avenue. York Park has a key role in the daily functions of government, provides sites for the headquarters of major national associations and plays an international role in receiving visiting officials and dignitaries. Consequently, it is necessary that development of York Park and its public domain should achieve design excellence of a high order.

‘York Park’ is the gazetted name of the areas contained within Sections 1 and 15 Barton and Section 29 Forrest (named after commemorative tree plantings by HRH the Duke of York in 1927). However, for the purposes of the Precinct Code ‘York Park’ refers also to the environs beyond these Sections and includes all of the area between National Circuit, Canberra Avenue, State Circle and Kings Avenue.

The York Park area should be developed primarily as a prestigious office area and landscape setting to satisfy demand for office accommodation requiring proximity to Parliament House.

The urban structure and character of York Park should reflect the geometry and intent of the Griffins’ plans, and provide a legible hierarchy of streets and public spaces.

Development should respect the geometry and symbolic intent of the Griffins’ plans, particularly the vistas to and from Parliament House and the connections to national institutions, monuments and landscape spaces in and around the Parliamentary Zone.

Architectural excellence is essential for development in York Park, commensurate with its location adjacent to Parliament House.

High quality landscape design is essential for the development of York Park as a prestigious setting for National Capital uses and offices.

The landscape design of streets, pedestrian paths and open spaces of York Park should consist of a range of formal and informal spaces that reinforce the Griffin geometry and contribute to the landscape setting of Parliament House.

The public domain of York Park should provide for places for local recreation with a high level of pedestrian amenity.

Individual buildings should contribute to the coherent definition of streets, blocks and public spaces, form the public domain of the precinct, and contribute to the public domain’s active pedestrian qualities.

Greater use of public transport should be encouraged, particularly for the journey to work. As should less, or more efficient, use of private transport.

Safe and convenient movement systems for pedestrians and cyclists should be provided within the precinct.

Significant natural and heritage values of the area should be identified and protected.

Development and redevelopment should accord with the detailed conditions of planning, design and development below.

Permitted land uses for the York Park area generally are:

Permitted ancillary uses are:

Additional permitted land uses for Blocks 3 and 15 Section 22 Barton are:

Commercial parking structures in the York Park area are to be located where identified on the Indicative Development Plan at Figure 19. Retail and Personal Service Establishments are permitted at the ground level of parking structures as ancillary small scale facilities.

Retail and Personal Service Establishments should be provided at the ground floor level of Offices and structured Car Parks in the location identified for a ‘Retail Plaza’ on the Indicative Development Plans at Figure 19 and Figure 22.

Large spaces for recreation are to be provided at either end of Windsor Walk including a large space suitable for active recreation at the Canberra Avenue end of Windsor Walk as depicted in Figure 19.

Buildings are to be sited parallel with the Avenues (Kings Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Sydney Avenue), with National Circuit and State Circle, to provide definition to the geometry of the Griffin’s Plans with built form.

Surface car parks are inappropriate as foreground to the views from Parliament House and, to the extent they are permitted on a temporary basis, they are to be carefully screened with landscaping.

Basement car parks should be constructed below finished ground level and concealed from public streets and pedestrian areas.

Multi storey parking structures are to be designed to minimise their visual and physical impacts on the important public streetscapes of the Main Avenues and Windsor Walk.

A parking structure, if provided on the corner of Windsor Walk and Brisbane Avenue, should be located behind a screen of habitable retail/office buildings with address frontages to Brisbane Avenue and Windsor Walk and integrated in design with the retail/office buildings.

Particular attention should be given to the design of roofing to parking structures to relieve the visual impact of large roof areas.  A maximum height below RL 591 may apply to parking structures to relieve their visual and physical impact on the public domain.

Undercroft parking, that is, open parking basements projecting above ground level, will only be permitted where the National Capital Authority is satisfied that it does not limit the opportunity to create attractive landscape areas, and will not be permitted on public street frontages and Windsor Walk.

Parking policies for the York Park area are designed to encourage greater use of public transport for the journey to work.

An overall reduction in the total long‑term car parking provision is proposed. This will be achieved by initially limiting the amount of on‑site parking permitted in new developments.

On‑site car parking should be provided, at a rate of 1 space per 100 square metres of gross floor area, for new offices approved in the York Park area.  A higher on‑site and/or off‑site provision may be required by the National Capital Authority in specific cases, after taking into account the relationship between on‑site parking, off‑site parking opportunities and the capacity of public transport in the area.

Parking for non‑office uses will be provided at rates consistent with the standards of the ACT Government.

Surface car parks on unleased land will be progressively replaced by strategically located multi‑level parking structures and/or underground parking areas. Supplementary car parking in temporary surface car parks may be provided pending the development of these parking facilities.

If for specific sites the National Capital Authority determines that the amount of parking to be provided should be above the minimum on‑site amount specified in the requirement above, this additional parking may be provided either on‑site, or by way of a contribution to the ACT Government for off‑site provision of that parking in the locality, or by a combination of these methods.

To protect the integrity of views to and from Parliament House, development is generally limited to a maximum height of RL 591. 

On Section 1 Barton, buildings up to RL 602, inclusive of plant and roof height, may be considered where they add visual interest to the skyline, are set back from the Main Avenue frontages, and ensure that Parliament House remains pre‑eminent in views from elevated viewing points such as Mount Ainslie and from the East Basin of Lake Burley Griffin.

As Parliament House is sited above York Park, the roofscapes of buildings warrant particular attention. Roof plant is to be carefully integrated and enclosed within the roof form. Minor roofscape elements will be permitted to extend above the RL 591 height limit, to an extent not exceeding that of the RG Casey building, to add visual interest to the skyline.

Buildings should be a minimum of four storeys on the Main Avenue frontages.

Building setbacks have been established for Kings, Sydney and Brisbane Avenues within the York Park area as follows: 

On State Circle, a variable setback of a minimum of 20 metres is to apply, to allow the buildings to merge visually and spatially with the informal character of the woodland landscape surrounding Capital Hill.

Drop off points and minor architectural elements, which articulate and enhance the building elevation, will be considered within front setback zones.

High quality paving, lighting and bollards, integrated with soft landscape treatments, are required within site boundaries to complement the standards set and maintained in the public domain.

All buildings on blocks with a frontage to Kings, Brisbane or Sydney Avenue should generally have a significant entry facing the avenue.

Spaces in front of building setbacks are to be landscaped to reinforce the theme of York Park as prestigious buildings in a landscape setting.

External security barriers, if required, such as bollards and retaining walls, should be designed as integral and attractive elements of the civic landscape of York Park.

Services and service entries should be concealed from Main Avenues and pedestrian pathways.

The number of vehicle crossings should be kept to a minimum, to enhance the amenity and safety of pedestrian paths.

The landscape setting of York Park will consist of a range of formal and informal spaces that reinforce the geometry of the Griffins’ plans and contribute to the setting of Parliament House.

Landscape design in York Park will be of a high quality, commensurate with the location adjacent to Parliament House and places of national significance within the Central National Area.

Landscaping of frontages to State Circle will generally be informal, and similar in character to the native woodlands surrounding Parliament House, in order to visually connect York Park to Capital Hill and contribute to its landscape setting.

The design of car parking areas and arrival courts should incorporate generously scaled tree planting beds to provide shade and separation to parking bays. Quality streetscape furnishings and paving treatments are to be utilised to provide visual relief to surface car parks and vehicular areas within or adjacent to places characterised by higher levels of pedestrian use.

High quality, prestigious and durable building materials are required to be used for all developments.

New buildings should complement, but not necessarily imitate, the style, colour, form, scale and finishes of surrounding buildings.

Unpainted or galvanised metal will not be permitted on roofs, parapets or fascias.

Lift overruns, plant rooms and any roof mounted aerials, masts and dishes should be designed and sited to have a low visual impact when viewed from the street or Parliament House.

Internal courtyards of office buildings should generally provide deep in‑ground planting conditions and be of a dimension suitable for establishing large trees.

Windsor Walk is to serve as a central linear park and continuous pedestrian spine connecting public car parks, office destinations, the proposed retail plaza and a variety of landscaped recreation areas. It is to provide spaces for active recreation as well as quiet outdoor places for workers to enjoy during the day. Nodes of intimate formal parks are to be developed as accents within an otherwise informal woodland character extending the length of the walk. Larger spaces for recreation are to be provided at either end of Windsor Walk.

Windsor Walk is to be developed and retained as landscaped open space. Windsor Walk will be constructed and landscaped to form the main pedestrian spine through the York Park precinct.

Drawing showing indicative development within the York Park area. This drawing sets out the intended landscape structure of the area, sites for large scale office buildings and building address, areas of environmental sensitivity, recreation areas, and sites for public parking areas.

Figure 19: York Park Masterplan – Indicative development plan

Indicative section drawings for Sydney Avenue, Brisbane Avenue and Kings Avenue.

Figure 20: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (1)


Indicative section drawings for State Circle, National Circuit and a typical parking street.

Figure 21: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (2)


Indicative section drawings for the central and north areas of Windsor Walk, as well as the plan for the north area of Windsor Walk.

Figure 22: York Park Masterplan – Indicative sections (3)

Permitted land uses are:

Car parking must be provided at the rates specified for Section 9 Barton.

The objective for Section 10 Barton is to enable the Hotel Kurrajong and its setting to be used as a Hotel and Hotel School without detriment to its heritage values.

Permitted land uses are:

Block 3 Section 10 Barton is to be retained and maintained as public open space by the lessee, giving special consideration to heritage values of Hotel Kurrajong.

To allow office development in addition to National Capital Use purposes to enable the York Park precinct to achieve its maximum potential as an office employment area.

Permitted land uses are:

To allow development for National Capital Use in the southern part of the Block and for purposes consistent with protection of the whole heritage listed York Park North Tree Plantation (commonly known as the Oak Plantation) at the northern end of the block, and to include provision for parking, either in basements and/ or in a parking structure, and ancillary/small scale retail and personal services at building ground level.

Permitted land uses are:

Permitted ancillary uses are:

The Riverside site on Section 6 Barton occupies a prestigious position in the Central National Area and is prominent in views from vantage points north of the Lake and on approaches to the Parliamentary Zone. It is critical that the form and scale of development of this key site contributes to Kings Avenue and forms an appropriate built form flanking the Parliamentary Zone. All development in this area of Barton is to be of a consistently high design quality befitting its national significance.

The detailed conditions of planning, design and development for the development of the Section 6 are determined by its:

The aim is that the Riverside site, together with development on the opposite block, Section 9 Barton, will become an important public precinct with the development of residential and community uses in close proximity to the office employment areas of Barton and Parkes.

Encourage high density residential development, together with appropriate forms of commercial accommodation and other minor commercial uses.

Provide residential development that enables people to live close to a major office employment centre and take advantage of the panoramic views that the site affords.

Facilitate the development of small scale commercial land uses, such as commercial accommodation, restaurants, cafés and tourist uses to complement the permitted land uses.

Encourage a diversity of land uses that will enhance the Parliamentary Zone and attract day and night activities into the formal areas of the National Capital.

The permitted land use for Block 22 Section 6 is:

• Residential

Other land uses permitted, ancillary to the above uses, are:

• Commercial Accommodation

• Community Facility

• Recreation

• Retail.

All future buildings on the Riverside site should conform with the following principles:

A maximum height limit of RL591 has been established for the Barton area including this site. Individual consideration will be given to special vertical elements such as a spire or tower associated with a cathedral building on Block 31 Section 6 Barton.

The height limit establishes a maximum height for commercial buildings flanking Blackall Street with residential, community and other ancillary uses being located in buildings located closer to the Lake, following the sloping terrain of the site and stepping down to three and two levels for the building nearer Bowen Drive.

The built form should have regard for the site topography, stepping down the slope in terraced levels presenting a series of building ‘fingers’ interspersed with landscaped zones fanning around the contours.

The built form for residential development should be a minimum height of three levels and a maximum of four levels (one being a covered car parking level).

Unbroken, wall like façades will not be permitted. Terraces, balconies, roof decks and awnings are encouraged as a means of modulating façades.

Buildings should be set back at least six metres from Blackall Street with a 10 metre landscaped setback from Bowen Drive and satisfy the relevant ACT criteria regarding noise standards.

Primary vehicle access is to be from Blackall Street. With the exception of a limited amount of visitor parking, all car parking should be contained in structures (in basements or decked) and screened from external view.

Unpainted galvanised metal will not be permitted on roofs, parapets or fascias.

A pedestrian pathway/easement through the site is to link Blackall Street to Bowen Drive and the edge of the Lake.

Provide for the development of mixed use facilities, including office, retail and residential, incorporating a car parking structure and active street frontages.

Promote a range of land uses including Office, Residential, Retail, Café and Restaurant which contribute to the vibrancy, amenity and convenience of Barton as an attractive place in which to work and live.

Provide a prestigious development reflecting the national significance of Barton in the Central National Area.

Provide a scale of development commensurate with accessibility of the site to nearby infrastructure, cultural attractions and parklands and its location within the Central National Area.

Provide a scale of development that increases private investment in the precinct to deliver public infrastructure including local retail and professional services, café/restaurant establishments, and a parking structure.

Promote environmentally sustainable development including increased pedestrian accessibility and public transport use while reducing dependency on private vehicles.

Permitted land uses for Section 9 (shown as Land Use A in Figure 18) are:

To protect the integrity of views to and from Parliament House, development should be limited to a height of RL591.

Minor building elements (such as lift overruns and roof plant) that extend building height above RL591 will be considered where this enhances the architectural quality of the building, and fosters energy efficiency, indoor amenity, appropriate urban scale, and adds visual interest to the skyline. Minor building elements should be carefully integrated within the form of buildings.

Drawing showing the building height limit of RL591 for Section 9 Barton. Building setbacks are also shown and includes a six metre setback from Broughton Street and the majority of Blackhall Street, 25 metres from existing buildings to the south of the site, and a variable setback of between eight and 10 metres from Macquarie Street.

Figure 23: Section 9 Barton – Indicative building height and form

Building and landscaping will need to exhibit design excellence and be designed to ensure protection of the amenity of surrounding buildings and public spaces, including privacy, overlooking and overshadowing.

Individual buildings are to contribute to the coherent definition of blocks and streets generally in accordance with the layout and setbacks. A hierarchy of public spaces and street frontages should be created, with the greatest amount of public activity and building entrances being encouraged on principal streets and at public spaces.

High standards of architecture are sought for the precinct. Modulation of façades, entrances, window bays, sun shading and balconies, and clear articulation of building elements, textures and materials, should provide interest and variety to the streetscape.

Balconies should be of an appropriate size and design to optimise their use and privacy. A minimum dimension of 2.5 metres for at least one balcony per dwelling should be provided and balustrades should be opaque up to at least four storeys from street level.

Active frontages should include shops and entries to buildings. Address frontages will generally be free of service functions and blank walls, with residential and minor commercial addresses encouraged.

Residential frontages may be set back from street boundaries to provide entry porches and a garden interface with the public domain to protect the amenity of residents and contribute to the interest and landscape qualities of the street.

Drawing showing the location of indicative active frontages around Section 9 Barton. This includes a mandatory active frontage for part of Macquarie Street and the encouragement of active frontages for the remainder of Macquarie Street and the area fronting the small section of open space on Blackall Street.

Figure 24: Section 9 Barton – Indicative active frontages

Large off‑street permanent surface car parks are to be avoided. Car parking is to be accommodated in basements and/or in above ground structures concealed from public view. Blank façades to public spaces or streets are not permitted and sculptural elements and urban scale public art is encouraged. The inclusion of these elements can assist in ascribing different meanings to buildings, and provides the opportunity to characterise not only shelter and functionality, but to interact with our daily lives.

Some short stay on‑street car parking should be provided to support retail uses, pedestrian amenity and after hours activity.

Car parking for development should accord with the following rates:

A higher on‑site and/or off‑site parking provision may be required by the National Capital Authority after taking into account the relationship between on‑site parking, off‑site parking opportunities and the capacity of public transport in the area at the time of development.

The proponent must provide the National Capital Authority a long term parking strategy for construction staging which minimises disruption to parking. The parking strategy must be adopted in the first stage of development to accommodate a minimum of 470 displaced car parking spaces.

Access to the site (for parking and site servicing) should be from the side and access street generally.

Additional parking should be provided for vehicles associated with less consumption of energy. These include bicycles, motorcycles, small cars and car‑sharing vehicles.

Car parking structures should provide secure storage and related facilities for bicycle users. This would position the development as a local centre for commuting and recreational cyclists, as well as providing the opportunity for an alternative mode of transport between the many office buildings in the locale.

Drawing showing indicative parking arrangements for Section 9 Barton. This includes the requirements for a structured car park concealed behind building facades, short stay on-street parking aling Broughton Street, Blackall Street, Macquarie Street, and any new streets created with new development.

Figure 25: Section 9 Barton – Indicative parking and access

 

Drawing showing indicative streets sections through access streets and side streets.

Figure 26: Section 9 Barton – Indicative street sections

Paving, lighting, street trees and planting beds should be of high quality and should reinforce the amenity and visual quality of the pedestrian environment. Street trees and other large trees are to be planted in deep‑root soil conditions. Existing large trees are to be retained (where possible).

Drawing showing the indicative streetscape and landscape around Section 9 Barton. This includes retaining existing trees where possible, enhancing the streetscape through new street trees, planting beds interspersed with on-street parking, and an open space park in the north eastern corner of the site.

Figure 27: Section 9 Barton – Indicative landscape/streetscape

A retail plaza is to be provided on the corner of Macquarie Street and the side street (see Figure 28) and furnished with lighting, seating and paving to provide an attractive public area for outdoor cafés and restaurants.

The developer is to carry out off‑site works to create a high quality public domain commensurate with a vibrant and attractive mixed use precinct.

On‑street parking, verge landscaping, paving, lighting and furniture should be provided using high quality durable materials.

Development proposals will demonstrate a high level of performance in terms of environmental design including energy efficiency, climate management and water sensitive urban design.

Drawing showing the indicative location of footpaths in and around Section 9 Barton. The drawing also shows the location of a retail plaza in the south west section of the site and a pedestrian crossing linking this plaza with the south western side of Macquarie Street.

Figure 28: Section 9 Barton – Indicative pedestrian links

All applications for Works Approval for major development are subject to public notification and consultation. The determination of those applications that constitute major works is at the discretion of the National Capital Authority.

The Deakin/Forrest Residential Area Precinct comprises the area bounded by State Circle, Canberra Avenue, National Circuit and Adelaide Avenue. The Precinct also encompasses the site of St Andrew’s Church, the Embassy of Italy, Collins Park and diplomatic missions in Red Hill.

Figure 29 illustrates the location of the Deakin/Forrest Residential Area Precinct.

Map showing the location of the Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct location. The precinct area comprises the area bounded by State Circle, Canberra Avenue, National Circuit and Adelaide Avenue. The preinct also includes the site of the Church of St Andrew, the Italian embassy, Collins Park and diplomatic missions in Red Hill.

Figure 29: Deakin Forrest Residential Area Precinct location

The importance of the Deakin/Forrest residential area stems from its frontage to the Main Avenue of State Circle, its location within the Griffins’ Land Axis, and from its close proximity and relationship to Parliament House. The residential area is an example of the twentieth century ‘Garden City’ planning concepts that the Griffin’s adopted in their designs for Canberra.

The Deakin/Forrest residential area forms part of the original ‘Blandfordia’ subdivision by the Federal Capital Advisory Committee and the Federal Capital Commission, which was based on ‘Garden City’ and ‘City Beautiful’ concepts.

There is a National Capital interest in ensuring that development surrounding, and in close proximity to, Parliament House is of the highest design quality.

  1. The residential areas of Deakin and Forrest that lie between State Circle and National Circuit will maintain and enhance the character of the National Capital and will be planned and developed in accordance with its national significance.
  2. The principle residential character of the area and the use of the land primarily for residential purposes are to continue.
  3. Design of buildings in proximity to the Prime Minister’s Lodge must reflect the dominant urban design character of the locality.

Land use for the Deakin/Forrest Residential Area Precinct should be in accordance with Figure 30.

 

Drawing showing land use policies for the Deakin Forrets Residential Precinct. This includes National Capital Use for The Lodge, Open Space for Collins Park, Community Facility for St Andrew's Church and Forrest Primary School, Diplomatic Mission for a number of sites in Deakin, Forrest and Red Hill, and residential for most of the area bound by Hobart Avenue, State Circle, Adelaide Avenue and National Circuit.

Figure 30: Land use for the Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct

The following uses are permitted on ‘Residential’ blocks:

Commercial accommodation including serviced apartments is not permitted.

Permitted land uses for ‘Land Use A’ are:

To ensure excellent urban design for this important residential precinct adjacent to Parliament House, the quantitative standards, with the exception of building height and plot ratio, may be varied where it can be demonstrated that this would result in an excellent urban design outcome. All residential development proposals are subject to public notification and consultation with lessees and residents in the Deakin/ Forrest residential area.

The general development conditions include:

The following conditions apply to residential sites fronting State Circle between Hobart and Adelaide Avenues.

The objectives of these development conditions are to:

Block amalgamation may involve more than two blocks.

Any redevelopment of blocks will result in buildings that address State Circle and should be two storeys in height. If blocks are amalgamated three storeys is permissible. If a block is isolated by amalgamation three storeys may be permissible.

The plot ratio for residential redevelopment of existing blocks is 0.4. If sites are amalgamated the plot ratio may be up to 0.8. An exception applies to blocks flanking Melbourne Avenue (Block 1 Section 6 Forrest and Block 9 Section 3 Deakin) which are permitted to develop to a plot ratio of 0.8 without amalgamation.  For other blocks, including blocks isolated by amalgamation, a plot ratio higher than 0.4 and up to a maximum of 0.8 may also be permissible (where it can be demonstrated that this would result in an excellent urban design outcome).

Architectural treatment should be of the highest quality, reflecting the prestigious character of the area. The provision of legible entries, accessible from the street, is encouraged as a means of enriching the streetscape. Buildings should be modulated and provided with articulation elements such as porches, balconies, bay window and shade devices, to provide visual interest to the streetscape. Balconies off living areas should generally have a minimum dimension of 2.5 metres.

Due consideration should be given to the roof form and roofscape of buildings. Roof top plant and equipment, if required, should be carefully integrated with the roof form and design of the building and screened from public view from the street. Internal floor to ceiling dimensions should generally be a minimum of 2.7 metres to promote natural lighting and cross‑ventilation, consistent with energy efficiency objectives and creation of generously scaled façades.

Vehicle access should be consistent with the principle shown in Figure 31. Blocks, including amalgamated blocks, with a frontage to a road other than State Circle may have access to that road. Site planning should ensure that vehicles are able to enter and leave the site in a forward direction.

The number of vehicular access points to and from State Circle should be minimised in the interests of traffic safety, convenience and streetscape quality.

Drawing showing the indicative block amalgamation pattern for residential blocks fronting State Circle. Indicative vehicle access is also illustrated.

Figure 31: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct ‑ Indicative block amalgamation and access

Buildings should generally be contained within the building envelopes depicted in Figure 32.

Drawing illlustrating building envelopes for resdiential blocks, including intended landscape zones, the overall building envelope, side boundary envenope and plot ratio.

Figure 32: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct ‑ Building envelopes and setbacks

Setback from State Circle should be 10 metres. Building articulation elements such as balconies, entries and shading devices may be permitted forward of the primary setback.

The minimum setback of buildings from side boundaries for three storey development is six metres. For two storey development, the minimum side boundary set back may be less than six metres provided it is generally in accordance with the building envelope depicted in Figure 32.

The minimum set back for buildings from rear boundaries for three storey development is generally 18 metres. Lower scale development may occur within the rear landscape zone subject to the protection of privacy, the avoidance of overshadowing and the retention of existing substantial trees.

Where the plot ratio exceeds 0.4, car parking other than parking for visitors, should be in a basement. If car parking is in a basement it will not be considered to be part of the Gross Floor Area (GFA) of the building. The basement level is also not considered to be a storey.

The finished floor level of the floor above the basement should not exceed one metre above natural ground level. Vent openings are to be integrated with landscape and architectural elements, and generally concealed from public view.

Undercroft parking, carports, and free standing garages are to be avoided.

The front landscape zone to State Circle should be developed to provide a high quality landscape setting with space for planting medium to large trees.

The rear landscape zone is to provide for a substantial landscape buffer that will afford privacy to rear neighbours and maintain winter sunlight to those properties.

The use of hedges is encouraged in lieu of, or combined with, garden walls when forward of the building line. Any front retaining or garden wall should be integrated with the landscape treatments. Garden walls forward of the building line should generally be transparent in character. The maximum average height of fencing should be 1500mm.

Large expanses of exposed paved surfaces except for necessary vehicle driveways, should be avoided.

Off‑site works to be provided by the proponent, may be required as part of the approval for development.

Development of amalgamated blocks is to be guided by the indicative development plan, section and elevation at Figure 33, Figure 34 and Figure 35 respectively.

Drawing showing the intended scale of development and landscape structure for residential sites fronting State Circle.

Figure 33: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative development plan for State Circle

Drawing showing what development may look like from State Circle, including building massing and landscape structure.

Figure 34: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative elevation for State Circle

Drawing illustrating the indicative section for State Circle, including road and parking, verge, development and landscape.

Figure 35: Deakin Forrest Residential Precinct – Indicative cross section for State Circle

The following conditions apply to Block 10 Section 13 Forrest.

The objectives of these development conditions are to:

Buildings fronting Canberra Avenue are to be a maximum height of RL594. Buildings fronting State Circle are to be a maximum height of RL591.

Architectural treatment must exhibit design excellence, reflecting the prestige of the site location. Buildings must be designed to ensure protection of the amenity of surrounding buildings and public spaces, including privacy and overlooking.

Modulation of facades, sun shading and balconies, and clear articulation of building elements, textures and materials, should be employed to provide interest and variety to the streetscape.

Development must be contained by the Development Zone indicated at Figure 36. Articulation elements permitted in the articulation zone are awnings, shade devices, dwelling entries and roof elements. Balconies are not permitted forward of the primary building setbacks.

Legible entries are to be provided from Canberra Avenue and State Circle. Balconies off living areas should be a minimum dimension of 2.5 metres. Balcony balustrades must be solid to optimise privacy.

Rooftop plant and equipment, if required, should be carefully integrated with the roof form and design of the building and screened from public view from the street and Parliament House. Internal floor to ceiling dimensions should generally be a minimum of 2.7 metres to promote natural lighting and cross‑ventilation, consistent with energy efficiency objectives and creation of generously scaled façades. Ground floor level must be equal to or greater than the existing adjacent kerb level.

Buildings should appear as a continuation of existing setback geometries of Canberra Avenue, Hobart Avenue and State Circle. To achieve this, a variable boundary setback to the State Circle frontage is permitted, and in this case setback to road geometry will be given precedence over the setback to the site boundary. Building setbacks from Canberra Avenue and State Circle and rear and side setbacks are indicated in Figure 36.

Vehicular access arrangements will be agreed by the relevant approval authorities, but will reflect the indicative vehicular and pedestrian access in Figure 36.

Vehicular access from Canberra Avenue should provide opportunity for landscape treatments commensurate with the primacy of the location. Access from Canberra Avenue should have minimal impact to the indicative verge planting pattern. The access layout should minimise traffic impact, with site planning to ensure vehicles are able to enter and leave the site in a forward direction.

A vehicular access point from Hobart Avenue should provide for main residential access to parking, visitor access to parking, as well as facilitating all waste and servicing vehicle access. Vehicular access from State Circle is not permitted.

The main pedestrian address frontages for development are to be oriented to Canberra Avenue and State Circle to reinforce the prestige and visual interest of the main avenues. Pedestrian access should connect with existing footpaths.

Onsite parking must not be located within the Canberra Avenue and State Circle front landscape zones. All car parking other than parking for visitors, should be in a basement.

Traffic and parking assessments should accompany development proposals for the site, and this will be determined in consultation with the approving authority.

Secure parking entry/exit points should be located to take advantage of the natural fall of the site to avoid external ramps and to maximize the opportunity for ‘at grade’ entry into undercover parking zones under the building footprints.

Parking basements and ventilation openings are to be concealed from public view. Ventilation openings will be configured to minimise light spill and noise from the basements.

Basement car parking within the setback areas on Canberra Avenue and State Circle will only be permitted where it cannot be seen from Canberra Avenue and State Circle and where it does not affect the planting of trees and shrubs.

The visual impact of surface car parking must be minimised through adequate screening and landscape treatment that appropriately considers view lines and safety.

Undercroft parking, carports and free standing garages are not permitted.

Refer to ‘Design and Siting General Code’ for parking provision requirements.

Landscaping should be consistent with Figure 36 and employ a formal character to Canberra Avenue and State Circle appropriate to the sites prestigious location.

The front and offsite landscape zones to Canberra Avenue and State Circle must be developed to provide a high quality landscape setting with space for planting shrubs and medium to large trees. The front and offsite landscape zones must be filled to ensure fall away from the ground level of buildings.

The Canberra Avenue verge will have inter‑plantings of Eucalyptus mannifera and Prunus species consistent with nearby plantings along Canberra Avenue, and the indicative planting pattern shown in Figure 36. The State Circle verge will have Quercus species plantings consistent with verge trees along State Circle, and the indicative planting pattern shown in Figure 36.

Landscaping should soften built mass presented to Canberra Avenue and State Circle.

Wide building entrances marked with considered landscaping should be used to create formal and legible address frontages to Canberra Avenue and State Circle. These entrances should be integrated with existing footpaths.

A publically accessible, high quality landscaping treatment, reflecting the indigenous landscape character of the land between State Circle and Capital Circle is to be provided at the corner of Canberra Avenue and State Circle to increase the amenity and visual quality for the site.

Letter box pillars, utility meters and minor service structures located in the landscape zone should be harmoniously integrated with the landscape design.

The rear landscape zone is to provide for a substantial landscape buffer that will afford privacy to rear neighbours and maintain winter sunlight to those properties.

Existing trees to the western boundary of Block 10 Section 13 Barton should be maintained where possible to ensure visual privacy between new development and the existing childcare centre. Additional planting to the rear of the site should be used to enhance privacy to the childcare centre without compromising solar gain.

Off‑site landscape works, as indicated in Figure 36, consistent with landscaping for the subject site, may be required as part of the approval for development.

 

Drawing showing general principles for development of Block 10 Section 13 Forrest. Development zones are located at the corner of State Circle and Hobart Avenue and along Canberra Avenue. The two building zones are separated by green space. Access points are indicated on the Canberra and Hobart Avenue frontages.

Figure 36: Block 10 Section 13 Forrest ‑ General design principles

Drawing showing indicative cross sections at the Canberra Avenue and State Circle frontages. Buildings indicated are generally three storeys at the State Circle frontage and four storeys at the Canberra Avenue frontage.

Figure 37: Block 10 Section 13 Forrest ‑ Indicative edge cross sections


City Hill Precinct comprises the area radiating from City Hill and bounded by London Circuit. The precinct includes University Avenue, Ainslie Place and parts of Northbourne, Commonwealth and Constitution Avenues.

Figure 38 illustrates the location of the City Hill Precinct.

Map showing the location of the City Hill Precinct. The precinct area includes City Hill and land surrounding City Hill bounded by London Circuit.

Figure 38: City Hill Precinct location

The City Centre has a multi‑faceted role as Canberra’s most important metropolitan centre. The City Hill Precinct within the City Centre is located at the apex of the National Triangle in a location astride an important entrance route to the Parliamentary Zone, and forms a significant element in the physical structure of central Canberra.

City Hill Precinct is the municipal heart of central Canberra. The City Hill Precinct forms the Griffin’s symbolic and geographical centre for the City – a corner completing the National Triangle as a gateway to the Central National Area and a hub connecting significant main avenues and vistas.

There is a National Capital interest in ensuring that:

  1. Maintain and promote the City Centre as the main commercial centre of Canberra and the region – with the City Hill Precinct as the pre‑eminent heart of City.
  2. The design of buildings and the amenity and environmental quality of the main public spaces should result in an accessible, attractive, high quality and distinctive centre, consistent with the City’s role as the major metropolitan centre and its location at one point of the National Triangle, the major organising element of the Central National Area.
  3. That the City Hill Precinct provides a vibrant, interesting and lively centre with high levels of human activity.
  4. Development must command the highest standards of urban design, sustainability, exemplary architecture and social inclusion, reflecting the character of the National Capital.
  5. The City Hill Precinct must complement and actively relate to, and integrate with, the existing and future structure of the rest of City.
  6. Encourage a mix of land uses, including residential uses, which contribute to a diverse and active character.
  7. Major buildings of municipal or cultural significance should be located adjacent to City Hill Park, with their main address to Vernon Circle.

Land use for the City Hill Precinct should be in accordance with Figure 39.

Drawing showing land use policies for the City Hill Precinct. City Hill itself is shown as Open Space. Other land has a land use policy of Land Use A which permits a broad range of resndeital and commercial uses.

Figure 39: Land use for the City Hill Precinct

Permitted land uses for Land Use A are:

Any buildings located within City Hill Precinct must be subsidiary to the permitted use as a park and must be designed, sited and of a scale that complements the landscape character.

New or altered buildings must ensure that:

Subdivision patterns should be designed to minimise amalgamation of land and achieve a mix of development scales including fine urban grain.

New buildings are encouraged to be delivered through design competitions in order to encourage innovation and design excellence.

The symbolic importance of the City Hill Precinct should be reinforced in the design treatment of the streetscape and public places.

Public art and art spaces in new development should be encouraged.

Landscape and streetscape treatments are to be of a high quality emphasising the geometry and formality of the Main Avenues.

New development should exemplify sustainability principles and demonstrate excellence in urban design, landscape and architecture.

Drawing showing indicative development of the City Hill Precinct, including general building layout, landscape structure and retenion of City Hill as a park.

Figure 40: City Hill – Indicative development

City Hill Park should be retained and enhanced as an enclosed central park serving a functional role within an urban built form.

The topography of City Hill Park may need to be modified to create an urban park, accommodate pedestrian desire lines and integrate with Vernon Circle.

City Hill Park is the primary public space for the Precinct. Any buildings located on City Hill Park must be ancillary to this purpose and be designed, sited and of a scale that complements the landscape character.

New public spaces created within the Precinct must complement and not diminish the pre‑eminence of City Hill Park.

 

Drawing reaffirming the role of City Hill Park as the central open space area of the precinct.

Figure 41: City Hill – City Hill Park as a central open space

Building heights of up to 25 metres (generally six to eight storeys) above adjacent kerb levels of London Circuit, Vernon Circle and Northbourne, Edinburgh, Constitution and Commonwealth Avenues are permissible in all areas of City Hill Precinct.

Landmark buildings up to RL617 (generally 14 to 18 storeys) will be restricted to the locations identified in Figure 42, generally being the corners of the main avenues intersecting with London Circuit.

Drawing showing the general alignment of buildings and the indicative location of landmark buildings permitted to RL617 generally either side of major roads radiating from City Hill, including Northbourne Avenue, Constitution Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, and Edinburgh Avenue.

Figure 42: City Hill – Indicative building form, height and landmark buildings

Buildings more than 25 metres in height are to be the subject of wind testing, including down draught conditions and turbulence, to ensure development does not have adverse impacts on building entrances and the public domain.

Buildings fronting Vernon Circle should have a minimum height of 16 metres (equivalent to four storeys) to create a sense of enclosure around City Hill Park.

Minor building elements that extend building height above 25 metres will be considered where this enhances the architectural quality of the building and fosters energy efficiency, indoor amenity and appropriate urban scale.

Minimum floor‑to‑ceiling heights within buildings are to be as follows:

Location

Min. floor height

Ground Floor facing Constitution Avenue and roads where ‘Indicative Active Frontages’ are located

6.5 metres floor to ceiling (mezzanine level permitted over 30% of ground floor)

Ground Floor (Residential)

3.3 metres floor‑to‑ceiling

Ground Floor (other uses, including commercial/office use)

3.6 metres floor‑to‑ceiling

Residential (general)

2.7metres floor‑to‑ceiling minimum for all habitable rooms, 2.4 metres is the preferred minimum for all non‑habitable rooms however 2.25 metres is permitted.

For two‑storey units, 2.4 metres minimum for second storey if 50 percent or more of the apartment has 2.7 metre minimum ceiling heights.

For two‑storey units with a two‑storey void space, 2.4 metre minimum ceiling heights.

Attic spaces are permitted, with a 1.5 metre minimum wall height at edge of room with a 30 degree minimum ceiling slope.

 

Street level frontages should, where possible, be active. Primary retail activities should be off London Circuit with secondary food and beverage activities occurring along north‑south laneways so as to optimise sunlight access during peak periods.

Buildings on the avenues must have predominantly active frontages at ground floor.

New road connections to Vernon Circle from Constitution and Edinburgh Avenues should facilitate access for local traffic and pedestrians.

View corridors must be retained from radiating avenues to City Hill Park. No buildings should bridge these avenues.

A limited palette of high‑quality pedestrian pavement materials, street furniture and lighting will be used. Pavement and landscape design should have an elegant, simple and bold design emphasising the geometry and formality of the main avenues.

Drawing showing the location of connections between Vernon Circle and London Circuit and the vistas provided by these connections. Connections and vistas are location at Northbourne Avenue, Ainslie Avenue, Constitution Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue, Edinburgh Avenue and University Avenue.

Figure 43: City Hill – Indicative avenue connection and vistas

The heritage values of the Sydney and Melbourne Buildings are to be considered and addressed by new buildings adjacent to these sites.

Major modifications to the existing traffic management arrangements are dependent upon the continuing implementation of peripheral parkways and city bypass routes including Gungahlin Drive, Majura Parkway, Clunies Ross Street, Fairbairn Avenue, Marcus Clarke Street and Cooyong/Ballumbir Streets and the removal of the Parkes Way cloverleaves.

Traffic engineering devices (e.g. slip lanes) should be designed to promote pedestrian amenity, safety and access and bicycle movements.

Drawing showing the indicative road hierarchy around the City Hill Precinct and immediate surrounds. Main thoroughfares are to include London Circuit, Parkes Way, Constitution Avenue, Edinburgh Avenue, University Avenue and Northbourne Avenue. Other streets are lower in the hierarchy and designated as either major city streets or city streets.

Figure 44: City Hill – Indicative road hierarchy

Replacement of existing surface car parks and public car parking should be provided for as identified in the ACT Government Parking Strategy. Development of existing surface car parks will need to demonstrate that an adequate public car parking provision (on street or in appropriately designed structures) will meet the needs of City Hill Precinct.

Car parking for new development is to be accommodated in basements or in above ground structures that do not dominate the public domain.

London Circuit should operate as the main public transport circuit for Canberra City.

Redevelopment of the City Hill Precinct should take place in the context of an integrated public transport plan. Mechanisms should be introduced to give priority to public transport.

Drawing showing indicative public transport routes around the City Hill Precinct. London Circuit is depicted as a public transport route, along with Northbourne Avenue, Constitution Avenue, Commonwealth Avenue and Edinburgh Avenue.

Figure 45: City Hill – Indicative public transport

Existing laneways should be retained and new laneways created to provide permeability and create service access. Opportunities should be identified to create laneways with active frontages, particularly in relation to heritage and public buildings and at intersections.

Drawing showing the anticipated location of new laneways around City Hill Precinct. Laneways are shown midblock between Vernon Circle and London Circuit, to the sides of Civic Square and to the sides of University Avenue.

Figure 46: City Hill – Indicative laneways

New development, including public spaces, will facilitate pedestrian connectivity and bicycle movements within the City Hill Precinct and between the City Hill Precinct and Canberra Central.

Drawing showing the intended location of pedestrian links around the City Hill Precinct. These links typically connect City Hill Park to London Circuit and beyond.

Figure 47: City Hill – Indicative pedestrian links

 

 

Indicative cross section through Commonwealth Avenue to City Hill Park. The cross section shows the open space of City Hill Park in the centre, with progressively taller development from Vernon Circle to that fronting London Circuit.

Figure 48: City Hill – Indicative street cross section (Constitution Avenue to City Hill Park)

Indicative cross sections for streets around the City Hill Precinct. This includes London Circuit, Vernon Circle and extensions of existing avenues to Vernon Circle. Options are provided for London Circuit, including both one way and two way options.

Figure 49: City Hill – Indicative street cross sections

Vernon Circle should serve as a ceremonial road leading to Parliament House and for public events for the city of Canberra. Any major redevelopment of the City Hill precinct should consider alternative options for traffic to allow easy pedestrian access to City Hill via Vernon Circle.

Over time, the existing major cultural and municipal buildings adjacent to City Hill Park (and extensions to them) could be reconfigured to address Vernon Circle.

Drawing showing an indicative approach to Vernon Circle, including the location of extensions of Constitution Avenue and Edinburgh Avenue, the location of signalised pedestrian crossings and areas of street tree plantings.

Figure 50: City Hill – Indicative Vernon Circle

 

Illustration showing the potential of Vernon Circle when developed according to the National Capital Plan. The drawing is from street level perspective and shows active uses fronting Vernon Circle, the landscaping and street trees.

Figure 51: Artist’s impression of Vernon Circle

London Circuit should serve as a gateway, providing a transition between the boulevard character of the avenues and the urban scale of the inner City Hill Precinct. The transition should be achieved through the use of urban design and traffic engineering treatments that serve to physically and psychologically divert traffic from the avenues onto London Circuit, thereby limiting access to the inner City Hill Precinct to predominantly local traffic. London Circuit should operate as the main public transport circuit for Canberra Central.

Buildings must be set back from London Circuit a sufficient distance to establish a tree‑lined boulevard character (two rows of trees and wide pavements).

New buildings fronting London Circuit must have active frontages.

 

Drawing showing an oblique aerial persepctive of City Hill Precinct, looking northwest towards the National Triangle.

Figure 52: City Hill – Indicative development (an aerial perspective looking northwest towards the National Triangle

 

Illustration showing the City Hill Precinct from an oblique perspective looking towards the National Triangle. This illustration clearly shows the intention for City Hill Park to remain the central open space within this part of the city. The uniform landscape structure around London Circuit is clearly visible.

Figure 53: City Hill – An artist’s impression of City Hill Park looking towards the National Triangle