Circular Quay Renewal

The project proposes the renewal of Circular Quay’s wharves, an upgrade to the station, and improvements to surrounding public spaces. It seeks to enhance accessibility, enrich the visitor and commuter experience, and create a vibrant, sustainable public domain that reflects the precinct’s national and international significance.

Located within a precinct of exceptional heritage value, the project area is within and adjacent to multiple World, National, State and locally significant heritage places, including the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the Tank Stream Culvert.

GML was engaged by Lendlease as part of the Circular Quay Consortium (CQC) to deliver a comprehensive range of heritage services as part of early site investigations for the CGR project. GML’s scope included strategic heritage advice, heritage and archaeological impact assessments, the preparation of Aboriginal and historical archaeological research designs and methodologies for implementation across the site, and archaeological test excavation and monitoring.

The project has involved identifying and assessing both Aboriginal and historical heritage and included extensive consultation with the Aboriginal community, heritage stakeholders and precinct landowners and managers.

GML also developed a Place and Heritage Interpretation Plan to embed the site’s diverse Aboriginal and historical narratives into the future design. This plan guides the integration of heritage values into architecture, public art, and landscape treatments—ensuring continued recognition and appreciation of Circular Quay as a dynamic, layered and iconic cultural place.