This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
FOLLOWING an architectural competition, Parramatta Mission and the City of Parramatta have unveiled the designs for the new Parramatta Square site, The Gathering Place.
The winning design for the mission and council’s architectural design excellence competition was submitted by architects Durbach Block Jaggers.
The new building will include a rooftop chapel and garden, with the structure inspired by a banksia pod.
“The Gathering Place building is a friendly and familiar form. Its gentle connection to the Leigh Memorial Church preserves both light and visibility. The circular geometry of the new welcomes all, complementing the inward nature of the existing church,” said the architects in a joint statement.
The Gathering Place will be built adjacent and in contrast to Leigh Memorial Church, which will also see its spire rebuilt.
“For Parramatta Mission, a Parish Mission of the Uniting Church, The Gathering Place reflects a commitment to serving the Parramatta community. It will house Parramatta Mission’s staff, be a centre for its social services and a place of meeting,” said Ian Gray, Parramatta mission board and Church Council member.
Beyond its history as a church site, the square was a significant meeting place for the Burramattagal people of the Darug nation, the traditional owners of the land.
The land around the area in Parramatta shows evidence of Aboriginal society for over 60,000 years.
“The Gathering Place is a remarkable design and will be a wonderful addition to Parramatta’s Civic Link – a green, pedestrianised pathway that will connect the heart of the Parramatta CBD to the river,” said Steven Issa, lord mayor of the City of Parramatta.
The site has been occupied by Christian church’s for 200 years, with the Leigh Memorial Church the third on the site since 1821.
“The Uniting Church is working in partnership with City of Parramatta Council in order to reach an agreed position that recognises the loss of development potential of the site. Construction of this iconic community building can then commence as soon as possible,” said Gray.
