Northern Territory Art Gallery contract awarded

Local company Sitzler, has been awarded an $88 million contract for the revitalisation of Darwin’s Civic and State Square precinct which includes planning and design of the  Northern Territory Art Gallery.

The revitalisation forms part of the Northern Territory Government’s historic Darwin City Deal, delivered in partnership with the Australian Government and the City of Darwin, with $145 million allocated to transform the precinct into a welcoming and interactive green heart of the CBD.

 Sitzler, will construct the Northern Territory Art Gallery and plan and design all remaining elements of the precinct including:

• Northern Territory Art Gallery - located adjacent to the Central Heart with a generous grand veranda with cafes and room for events and festivals

• A Central Heart - a shaded, flexible and active centrally located space for special community events as well everyday enjoyment

• Tropical tree walk - a pedestrianised Smith Street with tall shelters for all year sun and rain protection

• Expansive events lawns - fully serviced for a vast array of festivals and events

• Forecourts - generous pedestrianised forecourts to Parliament House and Supreme Court with welcoming and cooling water-features.

The Northern Territory Art Gallery, previously referred to as the State Square Art Gallery, will have a dual English and Aboriginal name when opened. Consultation will take place with local Aboriginal groups and stakeholders to identify suggestions and support for an Aboriginal name for the gallery.

Works have already been completed as part of the Civic and State Square revitalisation, including the underground car park, landscaping of the former 90 bay car park and demolition of the Chan Building.

NT Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler notes “This project will create a vibrant new heart for the city and one that will attract locals, visitors, artists and businesses and provide an enhanced pedestrian link between the Darwin CBD and the Waterfront.

NT Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, Chansey Paech adds “the artistic, social and cultural benefits of this project will showcase the best of the Territory’s art scene.

“The new Northern Territory Art Gallery will provide space for exhibition that the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) does not currently have and will allow us to share more of our immense collection and touring exhibitions.”

For more information, visit invest.nt.gov.au/infrastructure-and-key-sectors/infrastructure/civic-and-state-square-revitalisation

Image: Concept for Northern Territory Art Gallery