Marion Council to build $1.7m smart precinct at Oaklands Park

A $1.7 million “smart precinct” capable of directing motorists toward empty carparks, free Wi-Fi and mobile charging points will be built in the south.

A $1.7 million “smart precinct” capable of directing motorists toward empty carparks, free Wi-Fi and mobile charging points will be built in the south.

The council has revealed it will install new smart technology in a 16ha area between Oaklands Crossing and Diagonal Rd.

This technology will direct motorists toward vacant street parking while touch screens will point pedestrians toward local facilities and provide information on nearby businesses.

A new playground equipped with sensors to record how often each piece of equipment is used will be built at Dwyer Road Reserve.

The reserve will also have free Wi-Fi and charging points for mobile phones.

As part of the project, new footpaths and streetscaping will connect the Oaklands Railway Station with nearby shops, including Westfield Marion, and the aquatic centre.

Marion mayor Kris Hanna said the pilot project would help shape the future of the city.

“New technology will tell us how and when people visit the area, which will help (the) council plan future infrastructure,” Mr Hanna said.

“Oaklands smart precinct will be a testbed for innovation. It is an exciting project that will make it easier for locals and visitors to access services and facilities by providing information in real time.”

Mr Hanna said he would look to collaborate with neighbouring councils to extend the benefits of the technology.

Design and planning will begin soon and the technology is expected to be introduced by mid-2020.

The project is being jointly funded by Marion Council and the Federal Government and will support the $174 million Oaklands Crossing project.

The government provided the council with a $867,500 grant as part of its smart cities and suburbs program.