Open spaces spending spree in South Australia

• The Marshall Government has endorsed 27 open spaces projects across South Australia
• Spending is a part of the 'Open Spaces and Places for People' grant program
• Local councils have to match the state government's contribution

South Australians will soon reap the benefits of $22.3 million worth in grants which are to be invested into new open space projects.

Various local councils across the state have received funding for projects such as new walking trails, playgrounds and recreation hubs. A total of 27 projects have been supported.

The funding is a part of the Marshall Government’s ‘Open Spaces and Places for People’ grant program.

“The 2020/21 round of the Open Spaces and Places for People Grants program has focussed on projects that will create employment and have public health benefits.”

Vickie Chapman, Minister for Planning and Local Government

“We are proud to partner with metropolitan and regional councils to deliver these projects, which will create fantastic outdoor and community public spaces for South Australians to enjoy,” she said.

The highly sought after grants received applications from over 30 councils. An independent assessment panel assessed all the proposals. 27 projects across 21 council areas were earmarked as high priority.

The grant program requires councils to match the funding dedicated by the state government. The support is to be used for improvements in the public spaces and to promote climate change initiatives.

“Each project will significantly improve and enhance the area, while creating a pipeline of work for local tradespeople,” Minister Chapman said.

One successful project is the City of Charles Sturt’s Military Road and Main Street Upgrade and Public Plaza, which was granted almost $2.7 million.

“This will transform the western end of Main Street into a public plaza, and revitalise the streetscape of Military Road,” Minister Chapman said.

“The independent assessment panel deemed this a high priority project, as it will improve road user safety and access, encourage active transport and integrate the space with Henley Square,” she said.

“This is fantastic news for the project and for our Charles Sturt community,”

City of Charles Sturt Mayor Angela Evans

“This funding means we’ll be able to complete the project and include the proposed public plaza on Main Street between Seaview Road and Military Road. The plaza will complement the existing Henley Square precinct, providing another beautiful space, with seating and greenery, to benefit our residents, visitors and our local businesses.”

Member for Colton Matt Cowdrey believes the development is critical and that it will improve the area for both locals and visitors.

“This partnership between the Marshall Liberal Government and the City of Charles Sturt will see the popular Henley Square Precinct significantly extended,”

Matt Cowdrey

“This section will include more trees, shade and public seating areas to complement the original development.”

To cover the costs of all high priority projects, the state government added an extra $2million to the grant. Combined with local council contributions this brings the total funding to $57.5 million.

Below are the 27 projects which have been granted funding.