First look inside the Hutt Street Centre after $2.2m upgrade

The Hutt St Centre has officially opened its $2.2 million redevelopment.

The Hutt St Centre has undergone a $2.2 million redevelopment. Picture: Emma Brasier

The Hutt Street Centre has officially opened its contentious $2.2 million upgrade.

The refurbished facility was unveiled by South Australian Governor, and the centre’s new Patron, Hieu Van Le, on Sunday.

A private retreat for families, medical treatment rooms, a creative hub and an all-weather courtyard are among the features of the upgrade. The centre’s dining area, laundry and bathrooms have also been refreshed.

The modern and purpose-built facilities aim to improve services for people at risk or experiencing homelessness.

Inside the refurbished Hutt St Centre. Picture: Emma Brasier

The all-weather courtyard for outdoor dining, group activities and social connection. Picture: Emma Brasier

The upgrade was prompted by the need to adapt to the changing demographics of such people.

Hutt St Centre chief executive Chris Burns said more than 70 per cent of people who came to the centre for help in the past year reported that their homelessness stemmed from a period of abuse or trauma.

Mr Burns also said the number of women seeking assistance had doubled since 2011, with more than 290 accessing the centre each month. “People at risk of or experiencing homelessness need much more than a meal or a shower to rebuild their lives,” he said.

“We’re looking forward to the many benefits these facilities will bring to our clients by enhancing access to specialist health and wellbeing services designed to meet their specific needs.”

The project was funded by the centre as well as by a number of foundations and philanthropists.

The redevelopment was approved by Adelaide City Council in April last year despite strong opposition from traders and residents who believed crime would rise in the area.

The redeveloped Hutt St Centre was officially opened on Sunday. Picture: Emma Brasier

Part of the refurbished Hutt St Centre. Picture: Emma Brasier