A bold new vision for Adelaide’s East End is officially underway, with the SA Government, the City of Adelaide, and community housing providers Junction and Unity Housing joining forces to deliver one of the most ambitious mixed-use precincts ever proposed for the CBD.
The landmark City East urban renewal project will reshape the eastern side of the city with four new towers rising up to 39 storeys, creating a world-class neighbourhood anchored by more than 700 homes, a 200-room hotel and new retail and commercial spaces. The announcement coincides with the launch of a national Expression of Interest process opening next week, inviting development groups to join the $900 million precinct.
Positioned across almost 8,000sqm between Pirie and Flinders Streets, the super-site sits in the heart of Adelaide’s cultural, civic, education and commercial spine. The concept masterplan features more than 700 apartments including 200 affordable housing outcomes, a 200-room hotel and commercial opportunities, high-quality public realm and greenspaces connected by vibrant new laneways, and prominent activated street frontages across both city streets.
At its core, City East is designed to support key workers, lower-income households and residents seeking to live closer to where they work. The precinct builds on recent government policy changes lifting CBD building heights and complements the State Government’s $500 million guarantee fund commitment to stimulate more city housing if re-elected. With direct access to the East End, cultural institutions, shopping, dining and public transport, the new neighbourhood aims to become one of the most connected and activated pockets of the CBD.
The project will also introduce new north-south pedestrian connections and green spaces to tie the precinct together, delivering laneways and activated street-level experiences that lift vibrancy and create an urban village feel.
Nick Champion said “City East is going to transform the East End. It will serve as a testament to those who share the vision to see Adelaide continue to grow.” He added that “At the core of the housing offering is fairness, affordability and an opportunity in our housing market for those who want to enjoy the benefits of city living.” Champion also recognised the broader partnership: “The Adelaide City Council and the Lord Mayor are to be congratulated for their bold vision for the East End and their efforts getting this project to the stage where we are ready to get a developer on board.” He continued, “I also congratulate the other members of this ambitious partnership, Junction and Unity, for their work on this project, their ongoing partnership with the Housing Trust and for what they do for South Australians in need of support.” Looking ahead, he said “Now we want a developer who shares our ambition to get on board with what will be a generational opportunity to make an everlasting change in our beautiful city.”
Lord Mayor Jane Lomax-Smith said “The City East project is further proof that the City of Adelaide is serious about reaching its population target of 50,000 residents by 2026.” She continued, “We are, and always will be, active in progressing and supporting property developments that create diversity in housing offerings and diversity in our population.” She said “This project involves a partnership with the State Government and demonstrates the opportunity that collaboration brings.” She added, “When completed, the City East development will be good for residents, good for local businesses and good for the city.”
Unity Housing CEO Matthew Woodward said “Unity Housing is proud to be part of this transformative consortium, creating a precinct that sets a new benchmark for inclusive, affordable living in the heart of the city of Adelaide.” He said “This project shows what’s possible when partners unite with a shared commitment to community, sustainability, and long-term social impact. We’re building more than homes – we’re creating vibrant, connected communities where people can thrive.”
Junction CEO Maria Palumbo said “The housing crisis demands innovative and collaborative solutions to deliver both housing and sustainable communities.” She added, “This is an example of Government, Council and community housing providers working collectively, to amplify impact through the creation of a new neighbourhood.” She said “Housing in the CBD is critical to our State’s growth and prosperity.” Palumbo noted, “As Junction expands its reach across the metropolitan area, we are really excited to be part of this development which will support more people to live, work and thrive in the heart of our city.”
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