The Molonglo Town Centre and Surrounds Master Plan established the long-term vision for Canberra's newest town centre. With the project progressing, we are now focusing on the next stage of work planning Molonglo 2, part of the Eco-Urban sub-precinct. This will inform future planning applications and the ongoing delivery of the town centre.

This work includes urban design, landscape design, public realm design, planning and community engagement activities to help create places that respond to the needs of future residents, workers, visitors and the wider Molonglo community.

Situated alongside preserved natural open space, M2 will deliver approximately 500 new homes in apartment buildings ranging from four to nine storeys. This stage is focused on outdoor living, nature and connection to the surrounding landscape. Molonglo 2 will also establish links to the Molonglo River Reserve Corridor, creating opportunities for learning and connection with nature close to home.

A key focus of detailed planning for Molonglo 2 is the Cultural Woodland, a distinctive landscape that will balance ecological conservation, cultural recognition and community access. As design work progresses, the Cultural Woodland will continue to be shaped as a place that protects and celebrates the area's Box-Gum Woodland, Aboriginal Cultural Trees and important habitat values while providing opportunities for learning, recreation and connection to Ngunnawal Country.

The Cultural Woodland will support the conservation of Box-Gum Woodland and habitat for species including the Gang-gang Cockatoo, Superb Parrot and Pink-tailed Worm-lizard. Consistent with the Master Plan vision, the design adopts a light-touch, natural approach, focusing activity within areas of lower habitat value and minimising impacts on sensitive ecological communities.

Detailed design later in the process will explore how pathways, raised boardwalks and connections to the Molonglo River Reserve Corridor may support access while maintaining habitat integrity. Opportunities for cultural gathering, interpretation, public art, play and learning will also continue to be developed in collaboration with Ngunnawal and the wider community. Native planting and habitat succession strategies will further support biodiversity outcomes and the long-term health and resilience of the woodland.

This approach seeks to create a Cultural Woodland where conservation, culture and community are brought together as an integral part of Molonglo 2.