Interpretation planning for World Heritage landscapes
World Heritage interpretation planning, visitor experience design & Aboriginal storytelling.
Project overview
Interpretive Design developed a comprehensive interpretation plan for the Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, guiding the delivery of engaging, place-based interpretation across several high-visitation precincts. The plan supports infrastructure upgrades and signature walking experiences while strengthening connections to landscape, culture and sustainability.
The project focused on research-led interpretation planning, concept design, and strategic recommendations to enhance visitor experiences across the Upper Blue Mountains.
Key sites included
- Grand Cliff Top Walk – Wentworth Falls to Katoomba. A new signature two-day bushwalking experience
- Govetts Leap lookout – Blackheath
- Evans lookout – Blackheath
- Conservation Hut – Wentworth Falls
- Narrow Neck Peninsula – Katoomba
Interpretation objectives
- Enhance visitor enjoyment and orientation
- Inspire interaction with landscape and World Heritage values
- Increase Aboriginal cultural learning opportunities
- Integrate sustainability principles into interpretive design
- Deliver cohesive, immersive interpretation across multiple sites
The project
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service received funding to upgrade key visitor precincts within Blue Mountains National Park, combining new infrastructure with high-quality interpretation.
By May 2024, most infrastructure works were complete, with the Grand Cliff Top Walk officially launched on 24 March 2024 by NPWS and Blue Mountains City Council, connecting Wentworth Falls and Katoomba.
Early concept designs explored narrative direction, layout and tone. Final interpretation evolved significantly, with a strong emphasis on engaging local artists to enrich storytelling, place-making and personal connection.
Client: The New South Wales Department of Planning, Industry & Environment
Date: October 2021 – February 2024
Services: Interpretation planning, concept design, visitor experience strategy, World Heritage interpretation
