Bradfield City Centre Central Park

Ethos Urban supported the Bradfield Development Authority through the design competition and State Significant Development Application process— helping secure approval for this two-hectare civic space at the heart of the Western Sydney Aerotropolis. 

Delivery of Australia’s first new city in 100 years is moving full steam ahead, with the plans for Bradfield City Centre’s iconic Central Park now approved. Central Park is the first major public space approved within Bradfield City Centre – a key anchor of the Western Parkland City and Australia’s first new city in over a century.

Ethos Urban managed the planning and design competition phases on behalf of the Bradfield Development Authority, working in close collaboration with ASPECT Studios and NSW Public Works to ensure the park delivers meaningful social, environmental and cultural outcomes. The park's approval is a critical milestone in realising the long-term vision for a connected, sustainable and culturally responsive city.

Design Response - Connecting with Country

The design of Central Park was shaped by principles of Connecting with Country, creating a place that honours First Nations knowledge, landscape and identity. Through the design competition process, six core design moves were embedded into the successful scheme:

• Forest the Edge – A shaded perimeter of native trees frames the park, referencing the Cumberland Plain and supporting urban cooling

• Frame the Sky – A landmark structure known as the Skyring celebrates the relationship between land, sky, and stars

• Care for Water – Subtle, ephemeral water features reflect natural hydrological cycles, encouraging respectful use of water

• Interwoven Heart – Woven play and learning spaces reflect Dharug cultural practices and bring the park’s centre to life

• Space for Gathering – A flexible Gathering Ground accommodates over 5,000 people for events, culture and ceremony

• Woven Connections – Curved, intuitive pathways echo traditional movement through Country and provide an inclusive circulation network.

Planning Outcome

Ethos Urban delivered the planning strategy, community benefit analysis and environmental assessment that enabled the State Significant Development Application to proceed through to approval. Our approach ensured a high level of integration across social, cultural and environmental objectives, consistent with the vision for a globally connected, green and inclusive city.

With construction now progressing toward a 2026 opening, Central Park will be a vital piece of green infrastructure supporting the early activation of Bradfield City Centre. Ethos Urban’s role in both the design competition and planning approval processes reflects our capability in delivering major public domain outcomes that balance innovation, Country-led design, and long-term community value.