BREAKING: The City of Sydney has just approved a transformative $27 million plan to revitalize the forecourt of the State Library of NSW. This urgent project will expand the existing space, introducing native plants and a central lawn designed for events accommodating up to 1,500 people.
The ambitious plan, covering 3,000 square metres, seeks to enhance connectivity between the library, The Domain, and the Royal Botanic Garden. The redesign will alleviate the starkness of the current forecourt, which is trapped between the library’s steps and bustling traffic lanes.
Officials from the NSW Government expressed that this initiative aims to create a welcoming civic space that looks towards the “next 200 years for the library and library precinct.” John Graham, the NSW Government Arts Minister, emphasized the vision to make access easier from adjacent cultural landmarks, including the Art Gallery of NSW.
The redesign involves reducing traffic lanes on Shakespeare Place—critical for easing congestion leading to the Eastern Distributor—and removing slip lanes connected to Macquarie Street. Enhancements are also planned for Sir John Young Crescent and Hospital Road, significantly enlarging the forecourt for community events and activities.
A centerpiece of this redevelopment is a new central lawn, envisioned as a vibrant plaza for library events, complete with seating, lighting, and potential kiosks. Additionally, the Shakespeare Memorial statue will find a new home within the revamped forecourt, further enriching the cultural heritage of the area.
This project is part of the state government’s long-term vision to transform the Macquarie Street East Precinct into a dynamic hub for arts and culture over the next 20 years. With construction set to commence soon, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a more engaging and accessible space at one of Sydney’s most important cultural landmarks.
Stay tuned for updates as this revitalization project unfolds, bringing new life and community connection to the State Library of NSW.
