Construction is starting on the new covered walkways at the Smith and Bennet Street intersections on Tuesday 7 May 2019, as part of the Territory Government’s commitment to cooling and shading Darwin’s CBD.

Initial works, adjacent to the Visitor Information Centre will include the removal of the tree, footpath and current shade structures to allow for the new shade structures as well as landscaping and 11 new trees. On-going works will continue from 7:00am each day.

Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics CEO, Andrew Kirkman, said the Territory Government was committed to developing infrastructure projects to improve the accessibility and liveability of the city.

“The shading and cooling structures on Smith and Bennett Streets forms part of the Darwin City Deals initiatives to cool the CBD, while creating a 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 corner of Smith and Bennett Street is a major tourism hub for the cruise ship industry in Darwin, and the structures will elevate existing pedestrian shading and improve links from the city to the Waterfront.”

“The new shade structures on Smith and Bennett Street form part of and complement the Darwin Civic and State Square precinct redevelopment.”

Local construction company, GT Builders, were awarded the contract to design and construct the new structures that will improve pedestrian connectivity and provide an iconic landmark for pedestrian and visitors to the CBD.

Construction is set to be complete by September 2019.

For more information on the Smith and Bennett Street cooling and shading initiative, visit dipl.nt.gov.au/infrastructure/projects.

ENDS

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