Planet nightclub site to be transformed after developers strike a deal with the State Government

A $300m tower will transform part of the city’s skyline, make a workplace for hundreds – and replace the long-closed Planet nightclub.

An artist’s impression of the proposed building at 83 Pirie Street which would replace the existing former Planet Nightclub. Picture: DPTI

• Public works to dig SA out of economic hole

The Planet Nightclub, once one of the city’s most popular music venues, will become a 20-storey office complex after a $300 million deal was signed off by the State Government.

Staff from the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure will become the building’s “anchor” tenants, occupying 10 floors.

The project has been on the drawing board for more than two years.

The promise of saving $50 million in leasing fees and creating 2000 jobs during its construction prompted the Government’s involvement.

Plans for the Pirie St site include a landscaped rooftop terrace, an onsite wellbeing lifestyle centre and ground floor retail. Picture: DPTI

Investor Cbus Property – part of the giant building union superannuation fund – has been looking for an anchor tenant for more than a year.

Plans for the site include a landscaped rooftop terrace, an onsite wellbeing lifestyle centre and ground floor retail.

An artist’s impression of the ground floor. Picture: DPTI

Premier Steven Marshall said the project would change Adelaide’s skyline and would help to create much-needed jobs in these trying times.

“This new $300 million building will support up to 2000 jobs during the construction phase and provide more work for local businesses and contractors,” Mr Marshall said.

Infrastructure Minister Stephan Knoll said consolidating DPTI’s seven city locations would deliver massive savings. “The new 10-year lease will see DPTI occupy less than 18,500sq m reducing the department’s footprint and delivering savings of more than $50 million over the term of the lease,” Mr Knoll said.

Part of the planned interior of the tower. Picture: DPTI

Design work and the appointment of a builder is expected later this year.

Plans to transform the old Planet Nightclub – which closed its doors 16 years ago – to premium office space were first floated in early 2018.

Cbus did not comment about the announcement on Wednesday, but last year chief executive Adrian Pozzo said the building would cater for the changing workplace.

“We recognise that the workplace is changing and tenant requirements are evolving so it was an ideal opportunity to create a new benchmark for office design in Adelaide,” he said.

“Tenants are not only looking for innovative workspaces that offer flexibility and foster a collaborative and engaging work environment but also leading design.”