Since the establishment of the British colony, numerous staircases have been built throughout The Rocks, of which Cumberland Place and Steps is one of the oldest. It is historically important as, unlike the other thoroughfares which have had their staircases formalised, it has kept its original informality. Its shape and connection to neighbouring streets and buildings offers an understanding into the formation of one of Australia’s earliest urban precincts characterised by its narrow, winding streets and steep steps. 

As our Strategy team undertook their assessment of the place , it became increasingly apparent that Cumberland Place and Steps had more than an obvious physical historical significance and that the place held important social significance. Historic artworks and photographs show it being used as a space, not only as a pedestrian route, but also a place of social interaction for local children, residents and visitors. Its layout acts as an informal amphitheatre, still used today for a variety of purposes such as addressing school excursion groups and as a fashion shoot location.

Our CMP revision needed to address the challenge of conserving the character of the Cumberland Place and Steps while allowing its continued use by pedestrians. The worn staircases were a safety hazard, yet closing them off to public access affected their significance. To retain the historic fabric while maintaining the social significance, it was recommended that half of the Harrington Street staircase be roped off while allowing ongoing pedestrian use through carefully defined upgrades and repairs to the other staircases.

Cumberland Place and Steps offers further archaeological potential in helping to understand the early colonial layout of The Rocks, tracking former paths and materials used in its many phases of development.

Conservation planning and policies, urban analysis, historic research, assessment of significance, Conservation Management Plan

The staircase bricks are made of asphalt – a rare example of an unusual form of construction.