Open Space and Places for People Grants Announced

Providing quality public open spaces which can provide a range of activities and support safe, healthy connected communities is becoming increasingly important. The Planning and Development Fund provides investment into the planning and improvement of open space and public realm in South Australia through two grant programs (Open Space and Places for People).  

$7 million from the Planning and Development Fund will now be contributed towards 27 local government projects across South Australia. These projects will help enhance open spaces such as reserves, playgrounds and cycling and walking trails and revitalise public spaces; such as town squares and plazas.      

More than $4.9 million of the total investment is for regional South Australia, with grants to support initiatives in areas including Kapunda, Laura, Waikerie, Berri, Kangaroo Island, Roxby Downs, Port MacDonnell, Victor Harbor, Port Pirie and Whyalla.

Councils will co-contribute to the funded projects. Some of the latest projects to receive funding include:

• $1 million for the redevelopment of Felixstow Reserve and the adjoining River Torrens Linear Park area
• $565,850 for upgrade of the Sturt River Linear Park through Coromandel Valley including a new shared use path and bridge, landscaping and park furniture
• $510,000 for the development of a Town Square in Kapunda which will be used for markets, events and general community enjoyment
• $446,000 to upgrade City Park in Port Pirie including paving, landscaping, public art and shelters
• $220,997 to upgrade four reserves in Whyalla, with the funding to support new play spaces, picnic areas and landscaping
• $600,000 to upgrade key public spaces within Waikerie, including the creation of a new plaza space, landscaping and widening of a shared pathway linking the Waikerie CBD to the riverfront.

In addition to the local government grant programs, the Planning and Development Fund provides investment in other strategic public space initiatives including a current commitment to invest $20 million over four years to demonstrate a new vision for the Adelaide Park Lands.

Projects funded through the Planning and Development Fund support the Government’s priorities including the implementation of the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide and the Regional Planning Strategies for South Australia.