RG Menzies Walk Reconstruction

The Scope of Work

A four and a half metre wide promenade will be constructed on the northern shores of Lake Burley Griffin.

The project involves the construction of the 2 km public promenade from Commonwealth Avenue to Kings Avenue bridges on the northern side of the central basin.

The RG Menzies Walk reconstruction is the first project in a staged program of works under the Canberra Central Parklands Master Plan.

The Walk will provide a well-lit, paved path through Commonwealth Park, Rond Terraces and Kings Park that will maximise the enjoyment of all those wishing to experience of the National Capital’s most beautiful settings.

This popular path will be enhanced with edge treatments, a new bridge, seating and bubblers and landscape works. The promenade will be two metres wider than the current gravel pathway, and suitable for a range of users including pedestrians, cyclists, runners and roller-bladers.

The promenade will feature interpretative signage and plaques, as well as highlight the existing historic attractions along the way, including the Captain Cook Globe, Nerang Pool, Blundells Cottage, the Merchant Navy Memorial and the National Carillon.

The promenade will be constructed from concrete, with an exposed aggregate finish, providing a durable and safe surface. A new ramp and stair will be built to connect the walk with Kings Avenue bridge.

The final design has been influenced by the feedback received in community consultation. The NCA conducted public information sessions and meetings with cycling organisations, runners, walking clubs, mothers groups, disability organisations and the RSPCA.

The Construction Period

Construction of the promenade will span the period from 1 November 2008 to 20 August 2009. The construction program is built around major events, avoiding disruption on Australia Day and Skyfire and accommodating, as much as possible, the requirements of dozens of activities already booked for this period.

Three construction compounds will be located along RG Menzies Walk and a temporary road built from the car park at Rond Terraces.

Alternative Routes

There has been an alternative route established that will be sign posted in an endeavour to minimise the disruption to recreational users of the current path.

The end result

The reconstruction of the RG Menzies Walk is an ambitious project that will set the standard for future projects in the parklands. The project will enhance the experience for visitors and local users who wish to enjoy this unique walk and capture the spectacular views of the iconic national institutions within the Parliamentary Zone.

Consultation

The NCA conducted a public consultation program during November and December 2007 as part of the design development of the RG Menzies Walk.

To read the summary report:

To view the final design:

Also available are: