Two concept options to rejuvenate old Buffalo site released

The Buffalo was one of Glenelg’s most iconic landmarks – but now the council has put up two plans to reinvigorate the waterfront site. See what’s on the cards.

One of the potential options for the redevelopment of the old Buffalo site at Glenelg. Pic: Supplied

Holdfast Bay mayor Amanda Wilson says the redevelopment of the old Buffalo site at Glenelg offers a once in a generation opportunity to reinvigorate the area.

The HMS Buffalo replica was removed from Wigley Reserve in 2019.

At its meeting on Tuesday night, the council agreed to got out to public consultation with two, as yet-uncosted options for the site.

Option 1 for the Glenelg redevelopment of the old Buffalo site. Pic: Supplied

Option 1 includes removing existing public toilets and incorporating toilets into a new kiosk facility.

A stationary tram at the site would also be removed.

Option 1 also features a ‘Dune Lounge’ – activating the foreshore with a lounge area overlooking an event space and the water.

Option 2 for the redevelopment of the old Buffalo site at Glenelg. Pic: Supplied

The other option integrates the tram on site by relocating it to compliment a new smaller capacity kiosk. The existing public toilets would remain in their current location.

The plan also includes an amphitheatre boardwalk experience.

Both options include realignment of carparking and a bicycle lane and service access for event.

The options both also create more usable open space through the removal of off-street parking and the utilisation of space currently inaccessible where the Buffalo replica area was located.

“We’ve got two really exciting options,” Ms Wilson said.

The Buffalo ship at Glenelg was demolished in March 2019. Picture Dean Martin

Community consultation begins mid May on the plans, it is expected to run for three-and-a-half weeks and will be open to all South Australians.

Once consultation has concluded, the results will be used to refine into one concept with high level costs to be presented back to council for consideration.

Council is seeking feedback on a number of areas including the realignment or removal of the tram, site naming options, shade and natural environment offerings, opinions on the size and scale of the food and beverage offerings, interaction and access to water, art and cultural opportunities within each concept and how the space can be used for events.