Macarthur House demolition works pave way for urban renewal


Released 18/07/2018

Work is well underway for the demolition of Macarthur House, a key element of the ACT Government’s urban renewal plan to help transform and revitalise the city centre.

As part of the Federal Government’s Asset Recycling Initiative, the ACT Government is selling some of its ageing buildings, including Macarthur House. The site is expected to go out to market for sale in the 2018-19 financial year, with the Commonwealth Government contributing a 15 per cent bonus on top of sales revenue achieved.

“The first stage of work is well underway, including the removal of hazardous material using specialist contractors. Demolition of Macarthur House is expected to be completed by early 2019,” Director-General of the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate, Ben Ponton said.

“Macarthur House consists of an eight-storey building and a three-storey annex comprising many materials such as concrete, bricks and steel that can be reused. We have a target of recycling 95% of the material that comes from the site. The recycling of these materials has been an important part of our planning.

“During 2018, the community will see ongoing demolition works occurring across the site. Measures have been put in place to limit any impact on residents, including defined working hours, management of dust, restricting all contractor parking to the site, and truck movement routes.

“As one of the key priorities for the ACT Government, the site has great potential to complement the ongoing urban renewal in and around the city centre, including current light rail works and future development of the city and gateway corridor.

“As Northbourne Avenue undergoes significant revitalisation, the development site that will be known as Macarthur urban village is expected to become a distinct destination on the light rail network. Buildings with small convenience shops, cafes and employment around the light rail station, combined with increased pedestrian and cycle priority, will create a more people-friendly environment to activate this landmark node on Northbourne Avenue,” Mr Ponton said.

For more information please visit www.planning.act.gov.au or phone Access Canberra on 13 22 81.

- Statement ends -

ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate | Media Releases

Media Contacts

Name Phone Mobile Email

Ms Mayumi Piper

(02) 6205 3146

0401 766 218

mayumi.piper@act.gov.au


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