LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCED FOR ADELAIDE

The landmark City East urban renewal project will transform Adelaide’s eastern precinct with the construction of four towers of up to 39 storeys which will host a world-class community precinct. The proposed mixed-use development would be among the largest of its kind in Adelaide, featuring a 200-room hotel, commercial office spaces and 700 apartments – 200 of which would be affordable.

The announcement of the project complements the State Government’s recent policy changes to increase building heights in the CBD, as well as the commitment of a $500 million guarantee fund to support more housing in the city if re-elected.

Situated in a significant city zone landholding of almost 8,000sqm between Pirie and Flinders St, the super-site is in the heart of Adelaide’s cultural, civic and education and commercial precincts.

Unity Housing CEO Matthew Woodward said once created, the precinct would set a "new benchmark for inclusive, affordable living in the heart of Adelaide".

The concept masterplan includes:

• More than 700 apartments, including 200 affordable housing outcomes
• A 200-room hotel and other commercial/office space opportunities
• High-quality public realm and greenspaces connected to new vibrant laneways through the precinct
• Prominent activated street frontages to Pirie Street and Flinders Street

City East will offer all the benefits of CBD living, close walking distance of the East End, key cultural destinations and community services, including shopping, dining and public transport.

The architecture firm engaged to prepare the vision and concept designs was Bates Smart, led by studio director Matt Davis. A communique from the project partners noted that the proposed design accommodates a “high-quality public realm and green space connected to new, vibrant laneways,” as well as activated street frontages along Pirie and Flinders Streets, between which the 8,000-square-metre site is positioned.

Lord Mayor of Adelaide Jane Lomax-Smith said the project will assist the City of Adelaide in reaching its population target of 50,000 residents by 2026. “We are, and always will be, active in progressing and supporting property developments that create diversity in housing offerings and diversity in our population,” said Lomax-Smith.

The project will open new north-south pedestrian connections and green spaces that tie the precinct together, with activated street frontages and laneway connections to create vibrancy and livability.

A national Expression of Interest process will open next week, calling for development groups to partner on delivery of the $900 million precinct.