Fresh details about the future of the Kingston Arts Precinct have emerged with the lodging of an application to subdivide the site, a decade after the project was initially announced by the government. The Suburban Land Agency has applied to create four new blocks around the heritage-registered Kingston Powerhouse, aiming to facilitate the development of the arts precinct.
An indicative three-dimensional view of the precinct, included in the development application, reveals a series of buildings with less density than previously envisioned by former developer Geocon. The government now anticipates signing construction contracts in 2026, with project completion targeted for 2028.
Subdivision Plans and Development Vision
The Suburban Land Agency’s application outlines plans to consolidate two blocks, subdivide the new site into four blocks, establish four planning controls, set out easements, and complete service works along with other landscape and minor works. The precinct is expected to feature three four-storey, mixed-use arts buildings on the north-eastern side of the Kingston Powerhouse, which currently houses the Canberra Glassworks.
Residential buildings are planned for the western side of the site, fronting Eastlake Parade, according to the development intentions plan. A well-placed outdoor event space is proposed to be centrally positioned amidst heritage buildings, aiming to create a harmonious blend of modernity and historical charm.
Historical Context and Project Delays
The announcement comes after a series of delays and changes in development plans. In 2019, an artist’s impression of the Geocon proposal for the Kingston Arts Precinct was released, but the ACT government terminated the contract with the developer in 2021. This decision came nearly five years after Geocon was named the preferred tenderer for the site. At that time, the government had hoped for the precinct’s completion by 2025.
In March 2023, the Suburban Land Agency indicated that construction on the Kingston Arts Precinct would commence in 2024-25. The new timeline aims for a 2028 completion, marking 25 years since the precinct was first conceptualized.
Community and Expert Reactions
Kurrajong independent Thomas Emerson expressed optimism about the progress, stating that it was encouraging to see movement on the project. “The government needs to show urgency in bringing it to fruition,” Emerson remarked. He recalled that in late 2015, arts organizations were urged to commit to becoming tenants in the proposed precinct. “Ten years and several ball drops later, it’s good to see the government finally taking steps toward construction,” he added.
“Let’s hope the new deadline of finishing construction by 2028 is met – 25 years after the precinct was first conceptualized.” – Thomas Emerson
Looking Ahead: Implications and Next Steps
The move to subdivide the Kingston Arts Precinct site represents a significant step forward in the long-awaited project. The consolidation of ACT-owned buildings on a single block and the creation of parcels for future mixed-use development and a multi-level car park highlight the government’s commitment to revitalizing the area.
As the government prepares to sign construction contracts in 2026, the focus will be on ensuring that the project remains on track for its 2028 completion. The development is expected to not only enhance the cultural landscape of the region but also provide new opportunities for residential and commercial growth.
With the application now lodged, stakeholders and the local community will be closely monitoring the progress, eager to see the Kingston Arts Precinct come to fruition after years of anticipation and planning.
