• Stage One of construction at the Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space in Malak will commence on Tuesday 7 April, focusing on upgrading the existing car park. 

• The car park upgrade will increase capacity, improve safety and accessible parking, setting the foundations for the future stages of the project.   

• During construction, the Malak Community Centre and Oval car park will be closed, with traffic control in place and alternative parking available on Darwent Street and Malak Place. 

Stage One of construction at the Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space (WWMRS) in Malak will begin on Tuesday 7 April, focusing on upgrading the existing car park. 

The Stage One upgrade, expected to be complete by end of July 2026, will improve safety, increase parking capacity with improved accessible parking, and enhance traffic flow and pedestrian connections.  

Starting with the car park improvements prepares the site for future stages, ensuring the project can be delivered safely and efficiently. 

During construction, the car park next to the Malak Community Centre and Malak Oval on Malak Crescent will remain closed. Traffic control will maintain pedestrian and residential access to surrounding facilities. Parking near the construction site will be temporarily unavailable with alternative parking options on Darwent Street and Malak Place. 

The long-term vision for WWMRS is to create a vibrant, inclusive outdoor destination for Darwin’s northern suburbs, designed for all ages and abilities, shaped by strong community input.  

Lord Mayor Peter Styles said the project reflects the community’s priorities into an important investment for the future of Darwin’s northern suburbs. 

“The car park upgrade responds directly to feedback from local residents and stakeholders who told us that parking, safety and access are key concerns in the area,” he said.  

“It ensures the site can support a wider range of users in the future and lays the foundation for further improvements.” 
 
In 2024, the design of the recreation space was shaped by the community, with public engagement held throughout September and October 2024. 
 
Mr Styles said the Waters Ward continues to grow as one of Darwin’s most diverse areas, highlighting the need for a larger, high-quality regional space. 

“Waters Ward Multigeneration Recreation Space will be more than a park- it will bring families together, strengthen community connections across generations, and the car park upgrade marks the start of a future investment,” Mr Styles said.  

The project aligns with City of Darwin’s Play Space Strategy, Access Strategy, Movement Strategy and its ongoing commitment to community-led planning. 

“I thank the community for their patience and understanding as construction gets underway. These important works will deliver lasting improvements, and we appreciate the community’s support during this time,” he added.  

For more information about the Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space and the Stage 1 car park works, traffic management and temporary parking, visit Waters Ward Multigenerational Recreation Space | City of Darwin | Darwin Council, Northern Territory.