One of Australia’s leading property developers, Peet, has unveiled the newly restored historic site, Fort Largs, in Taperoo. This December, the state heritage-listed fort will open its doors to the public for the first time in over 100 years, offering a brand-new eatery and fresh produce market.
The $10 million restoration project has been a major project for Peet, which has transformed the site into a modern, community space while preserving its historic character and original structure.
The Fort is set to be a focal point within the community, where people can come together to celebrate heritage, indulge in local produce and admire the craftsmanship of artisan goods.
The official opening of Fort Largs by Peet was on Thursday November 28th, with the site welcoming the public in December. The development features a range of dining options, including pasta, pizza, and seafood restaurants, as well as ongoing markets showcasing local food producers and artisans. A fresh produce and seafood market will offer locally sourced goods. Plus, the fort also includes independent studio spaces for artists.
The restoration is part of a larger $170 million development, which also includes the construction of over 200 new homes. The vision is to create a space where locals can come together to enjoy food, art, and culture, while learning about the fort’s history.
Built over 138 years ago to protect Adelaide’s coastline, Fort Largs has served multiple roles throughout its history, including as a military stronghold, a home for the Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps, and later as the South Australian Police Academy. Since 2012, the Fort remained vacant and in disrepair until Peet embarked on the journey to restore and revitalise the historic landmark.
This innovative adaptive re-use has been carefully planned to minimise alterations to the original structure and preserve the site for generations to come, whilst also educating the community about its rich history.
“Peet has invested heavily to preserve the fort’s heritage and bring it back to life as part of the new Fort Largs community. As the project nears completion, we’re excited to unveil this new community hub which will become a landmark for the Lefevre Peninsula. By integrating the fort with new public open spaces and a diverse range of housing options, we’ve created a place where history and modern life can live together,” said Peet Managing Director and CEO Brendan Gore.
The fort’s restoration was officially unveiled during an opening event on Thursday. In attendance was Susan Close, Deputy Premier of South Australia, Peet, South Australian fishing industry identity Jarn Jamison, and SA Police. Following the opening, attendees were given a tour of the fort’s new amenities and briefed on the site’s history and restoration process.
“The Fort Largs development is transforming this part of the Lefevre Peninsula and I’m looking forward to seeing residents move in over the coming months and years. The developer Peet has done a great job to retain some of the sites heritage values while providing much needed housing in the area. This will really activate this part of the peninsula including for those that don’t necessarily live at Fort Largs but who will take advantage of these fantastic new facilities”, said Susan Close, Deputy Premier and Minister of Heritage.
As part of the development, Peet has worked closely with Jarn Jamison, who will take charge of the fort.
“We are delighted to welcome the Fort Largs community through our doors to enjoy this space for the first time in its history. In addition to creating fantastic opportunities for small businesses in the area, it will provide a vibrant new space for the community to come together. Marketgoers can also look forward to access to fresh produce sourced directly from local farms, offering some of the state’s finest ingredients alongside a variety of local creative stalls, featuring clothing designers, musicians, and craft makers,” said Mr. Jamison.
With almost 130 years of placemaking, Peet is one of Australia’s leading residential developers that offers the choice of different lifestyles in townhouses, apartments, and family homes. With each community, they add to an enduring legacy of creating connected, liveable places built for today and future proofed for tomorrow. Each Peet address becomes a meaningful part of someone’s story and forms a special place where residents belong.
The Fort Largs restoration is part of a $170 million development which also encompasses over 200 new homes. With over 85% of homes already sold and the first residents beginning to move in, the fort’s opening marks a significant milestone. Over 90 homes are currently under construction, with an additional 30 expected to be completed before Christmas 2024. The final release is planned for early 2025.
What: Fort Largs Restored Fort Opening
Where: 5 Strathfield Terrace, Taperoo SA 5017
When: Opening to the public in December
For more information about the Fort Largs restoration and the grand opening, visit Peet’s official website.
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