Hahndorf’s main street set for upgrade while a new interchange has been scrapped

The picturesque Hahndorf main street is set for a major facelift, while a proposed South Eastern Freeway interchange near the popular tourist town has been scrapped. See the plans.

Improvements to Hahndorf’s picturesque main street are set to go ahead while a proposed interchange on the South Eastern Freeway near the popular tourist town has been scrapped.

In 2018, a strategic traffic planning study commenced to address traffic safety, connectivity and liveability issues in Hahndorf with a new interchange solution to access the freeway and remove unnecessary traffic from the main street of Hahndorf on the cards.

However, a proposed interchange was removed from the state government’s plans due to feedback regarding the impact it would have on the surrounding environment, heritage, business and property.

Infrastructure and Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis announced the state government had finalised its consultation on the Hahndorf Township Improvements and Access Project.

An artist impression of a new predestrian crossing set to be part og the Hahndorf Township Improvement and Access Upgrade Project.

Mr Koutsantonis said the government would take a revised approach to the project, aiming to balance the needs of Adelaide Hills commuters while protecting and enhancing heritage, businesses and the environment.

“Removing the interchange will protect the heritage and environment of the region, including much-loved businesses such as Beerenberg Farm,” he said.

Instead, the state government will focus on upgrades to the Verdun and Mt Barker interchanges while main street works and an extension to the Pioneer Women’s Trail will go ahead as originally planned.

“This revised package of works will improve accessibility and safety for locals, tourists and heavy freight around Hahndorf and the Adelaide Hills area,” Mr Koutsantonis said.

Features of the upgrade include replacement and widening of the existing Mount Barker Road bridge over the Onkaparinga River to include space for the Pioneer Women’s Trail, extension of the sealed pathway from the Hahndorf township to Silver Road in Verdun and improvements to two bus stops on the south side of Mount Barker Road.

The main street through Hahndorf carries around 11,000 vehicles per day, including around 600 commercial vehicles.

Plans to upgrade Hahndorf’s main street include new street seating, enhanced outdoor dining areas, upgrades and extensions to footpaths, interpretive signage and heritage plaques for buildings.

The main street will also feature new landscaping.

The Hahndorf Township Improvements and Access Project is jointly funded by the Federal and South Australian governments with construction set to commence in 2023.

The Mount Barker District Council is also committing funding towards this Main Street upgrade.