The Railway Roundabout located in Central Hobart is one of the busiest junctions on the city’s transport network, and yet as an activity space it is neglected.

This place-making project aims to create a lively hub for the community, and connect the Eastern fringe to the city core. As a key cultural site steeped in history, nearby precincts will shape the space and its creative atmosphere.

The tunnels of the 1960s thoroughfare will be redesigned, each capturing the site’s past and envisaging it for the future.

nipaluna/Hobart’s First Nations people have a deep connection to the land, and formed the paths which we use today for our transport networks. One of the tunnels would be dedicated to local indigenous artists, to provide a space where they can foster creative skills and showcase their talent.

Using images and graphics from the past, other historical aspects would be displayed. The University of Tasmania’s home at Domain House is a prominent landmark overlooking the site, connecting the city’s higher education to the nearby Schools of Nursing and Medical Sciences.

Similarly, the Royal Hobart Hospital/medical precinct enables the space for relaxation and reflection. The former 1870s railway station, given the official name of the roundabout, sits proudly as a remnant of an industrial past.

These themes would tie in to enable a place which can be seen as a destination by day, and as a creative event space at night. The latter has occurred in recent years through the successes of Monafoma, and its sunken amphitheatre provides a unique opportunity as a community hub.