Landscaping works have begun on the central circle of the controversial Port Douglas entrance roundabout project. 

Work crews, including staff from Mossman-based Papillon Landscapes, began stripping out the turf on the roundabout on Monday morning. 

A concrete sculpture designed by architect Kate Hewitt will be constructed in the central circle. 

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The low-set and concrete-only nature of the central circle has been a key point of contention for many Port Douglas locals, who expected a more ornate design featuring trees and other greenery that would function as a memorable ‘entrance statement’ for the tourism-dependent town.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads, which controls the roundabout, however has very strict requirements for the design, including that it does not restrict visibility for motorists on the Captain Cook Highway and does not require irrigation.