Russell Square Revitalisation
Located in the heart of Northbridge between Aberdeen and James Street, Russell Square was one of the first areas in Perth set aside as a park and was named to honour Lord John Russell, the Secretary of State for the Colonies in 1839, and UK Prime Minister from 1848 to 1852.
Russell Square, with its expansive green lawn and mature trees, provides areas of green respite for city dwellers and serves as an important community event space.
The park underwent upgrades in 1994 which including a gazebo, gates at entrances, lighting and water features. Thirty sculptures were commissioned from local artists Greg James and Drago Dadich.
In recent years, the park has primarily been used as a hub for Perth’s Fringe World, transforming into the Pleasure Garden with local and international live performances, food outlets and free activities.
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What is the Revitalisation project?
It has been thirty years since the park’s amenities and usage were last assessed. As identified in the City’s Open Space Plan as a high priority for enhancement, the objectives of the Russell Square Revitalisation project include:
- Transition Russell Square to a contemporary city park that supports population growth, various uses and a diverse community
- Improve accessibility and inclusivity, amenity, safety, use and enjoyment of the space
- Strengthen the neighbourhood’s art and cultural identity by providing a platform for public life, shared stories, cultural activities and events
- Improve the square’s functionality as an event space
- Respectfully interpret and celebrate cultural heritage
- Support landscape biodiversity, urban cooling and stormwater management
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What's been done to date?
The community was consulted via Engage Perth in September 2023 to find out how people currently use the park and their aspirations to help shape the future of the space.
The community’s top five priorities for future planning were found to be:
- Open lawn areas and seating for recreation and relaxation
- Social meeting spaces, including BBQ and picnic facilities
- Enhanced safety
- Enhanced connections and improvements to surrounding streets
- Continued use for events, festivals and markets
The City has also conducted research and analysis to form an Urban Design Study which outlines the current conditions, key issues and opportunities. This study will help to guide the development of a draft concept plan.
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What's happening now?
We are developing a draft concept plan with key improvements to enhance the quality and usability of Russell Square.
This draft plan will help us work with the community to shape a final concept plan.
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What's next?
Once the draft concept plan is finalised it will be presented to Council for approval before formal public consultation commences. The consultation will inform the final concept plan.
The development of the concept plan involves continued consultation with various community groups, residents, businesses and property owners surrounding Russell Square, as well as other relevant stakeholders such as WA Police and event operators.
Updates on the progress of the draft concept plan will be provided as they come to hand.
