$8m transformation of Gawler Place in Adelaide CBD to begin

THE $8 million transformation of one of the CBD’s busiest walkways into a pedestrian boulevard is set to begin this month. See what’s planned here.

An artist impressions of the Gawler Place upgrade, looking from North Tce.

• $7.8m upgrade to turn Gawler Place into dining, entertainment precinct

THE $8 million transformation of Gawler Place into a pedestrian boulevard is set to begin this month.

Wider footpaths, new lighting, greenwalls, seating and outdoor dining are planned for the laneway, on both sides of Rundle Mall from North Tce to Grenfell St.

A paved granite roadway, uplit trees and more bike racks are also included to enhance the shopping precinct.

Tender applications for the construction and landscaping project close next Tuesday.

Lord Mayor Martin Haese said the upgrade would not only beautify the area, but provide “safer access to pedestrians, while also retaining essential services and vehicle access to the street”.

At least 9400 pedestrians walk north through Gawler Pl daily. That is expected to increase by another 3000 people once the North Tce tram extension is completed.

Artist impression of the Gawler Place upgrade.

An artist impressions of the Gawler Place upgrade.

A contract is expected to be signed by January 22 and works will begin from January 29. Adelaide City Council has requested that the works be completed by October 31, in time for the November 9 local government election and the Christmas trading period.

However, exterior works planned for Rundle Mall Plaza, at the corner of Gawler Pl and Rundle Mall, is set to affect the progress of the council project.

Tender documents reveal the council is also requesting design services for its Chinatown Reinvigoration Plan and development of a concept design for Moonta St.

The Opposition has committed $500,000 to revamping Chinatown should it win the state election. That would include a permanent cover over the length of Moonta St.

The Central Market area is a focus for the council this year. Improvements are planned for Gouger St, while the Market Arcade lease returns to council.