Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics
Construction isstarting on the new covered walkways at the Smith and Bennet Street intersectionson Tuesday 7 May 2019, as part of the Territory Governments commitment tocooling and shading Darwins CBD.
Initial works, adjacentto the Visitor Information Centre will include the removal of the tree,footpath and current shade structures to allow for the new shade structures aswell as landscaping and 11 new trees. On-going works will continue from 7:00ameach day.
Department ofInfrastructure, Planning and Logistics CEO, Andrew Kirkman, said the TerritoryGovernment was committed to developing infrastructure projects to improve theaccessibility and liveability of the city.
The shading and cooling structures on Smithand Bennett Streets forms part of the Darwin City Deals initiatives to cool theCBD, while creatinga walkable city through designing new connections, linking green spaces,improving the attraction of Darwin and creating bike friendly streets, said Mr Kirkman.
The Visitor Information Centre on the cornerof Smith and Bennett Street is a major tourism hub for the cruise ship industryin Darwin, and thestructures will elevate existing pedestrian shading and improve links from thecity to the Waterfront.
The new shade structures on Smith and Bennett Streetform part of and complement the Darwin Civic and State Square precinctredevelopment.
Localconstruction company, GT Builders, were awarded the contract to design andconstruct the new structures that will improve pedestrian connectivity andprovide an iconic landmark for pedestrian and visitors to the CBD.
Construction isset to be complete by September 2019.
For moreinformation on the Smith and Bennett Street cooling and shading initiative,visit dipl.nt.gov.au/infrastructure/projects.
