Parade of changes finally on the way for shopping precinct

UP TO $8 million will be spent on a major overhaul of one of the east’s premier retail and dining strips — its first upgrade in more than 20 years.

Norwood, Payneham & St Peters Mayor Robert Bria on The Parade, which will receive its first upgrade in more than 20 years. Photo: Sam Wundke

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UP TO $8 million will be spent on a major overhaul of one of the east’s premier retail and dining strips — its first upgrade in more than 20 years.

Norwood, Payneham & St Peters Council last week agreed to spend between $4 million and $8 million on a long-awaited, three-stage upgrade of The Parade.

Under the draft masterplan the council would make The Parade more pedestrian friendly, improve outdoor dining, widen footpaths and plant more trees. It would also address the area’s longstanding parking issues.

The strip would be divided into key areas — The Parade West, The Parade East and The Parade “Heart” — with the work in each area to be done separately.

Mayor Robert Bria said it was an exciting time for Norwood.

“The Parade has long been seen as a benchmark, but we need to keep up as other shopping precincts have invested big money in their areas,” said Mr Bria, who also chairs the Norwood Parade Precinct committee.

“We have to stay relevant and to ensure we are doing our bit for the community and to offer diversity.

“We want the best result for The Parade. At the end of the day, it (overhaul) is a long-time coming.”

He said the masterplan would not include the closure of George St to traffic, despite some community concern the council was considering the move.

“There was never any intention to close George St,” Mr Bria said.

“It was important that I clarify the situation.”

The council first discussed creating a masterplan for The Parade about two years ago.

But those plans were shelved while the then-Labor government grappled with whether to extend the city tramline along the strip to Magill.

The tramline plan was abandoned with the change of government.

Speaking at last week’s council meeting, Cr Paul Wormald said it was time for action.

“The plan is very attractive but we must find the resources now and not spend another five years waiting,” Cr Wormald said.

“We also need to find ways of unlocking more space for cars.”

Cr Carlo Dettore also was keen to see a focus on The Parade.

“It’s taken a long time to get here,” Cr Dettore said.

“We have waited 25 years to see this initiative proceed.

“At last we have some planning to make this a people place. This will make it an exciting destination.”

Community consultation run from Wednesday, May 30, to Friday, June 22. The final masterplan will be presented to the council in September.