Image Credit: South Australia
The South Australian Government has announced its intention to introduce legislation tailored to facilitate the redevelopment of North Adelaide Golf Course. Aimed at establishing it as one of the premier public golf courses globally, the initiative will also provide a secure venue for the LIV Golf tournament until at least 2031.
Premier Peter Malinauskas highlighted the project’s potential to enhance the Adelaide Park Lands’ amenity, while also strengthening state tourism through increased visitation.
“In North Adelaide, we have a unique opportunity to deliver one of the world’s best public golf courses, with improved amenity and usability of our internationally renowned Park Lands, in a way which drives national and international visitation – delivering significant economic benefit for our state,” he said.
Adding to the economic discussion, Premier Malinauskas noted that “LIV Golf delivered more than $80 million to our economy this year. We want to grow that, but to do so, we have to deliver this project.” The plans are currently being developed in partnership with Greg Norman Golf Course Design and the Adelaide City Council.
Minister for Planning Nick Champion explained that through this legislative move, the government aims to unlock the complete potential of this prime location, ensuring multifaceted benefits.
“The legislation is about unlocking the full potential of this unique site for all South Australians. It will ensure the redevelopment of North Adelaide Golf Course delivers world-class sport and recreation facilities, while also protecting and enhancing our cherished Park Lands,” he stated.
His comments echoed the project’s ambition not only to draw in international sporting events but also to create accessible, public spaces for various recreational activities.
Key facets of the redevelopment include the enhancement of trails, improvements in landscape to promote activity and interaction for non-golfing visitors, and ensuring public access throughout the Park Lands. The comprehensive redesign will also involve constructing a new facility over the existing course and adjacent Park 27A to accommodate a dedicated driving range and wider golfing amenities.
In terms of environmental considerations, the project mandates replacement planting measures—specifically, for every tree removed during construction, three new ones must be planted. This action forms part of a broader commitment to consult with the City of Adelaide, which maintains custodianship over much of the Adelaide Park Lands, addressing future ownership and operational structures.
The project, while underpinned by forthcoming legislation, will still adhere to existing prerequisites set forth by the Planning Development and Infrastructure Act 2016, with necessary building rules consent and final development approvals pivotal to maintaining integrity and safety standards.
Recognising the cultural significance of the site to the Kaurna people, the proposed development will proceed in a manner compliant with the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1988 (SA).
Although the South Australian Government insists that no ground-disturbing activity will begin without proper consultation and approval from Traditional Owners, Deputy Lord Mayor Phillip Martin criticised the move to seize control of the site, accusing the Government of bypassing local decision-makers.
By reimagining and revitalising the North Adelaide Golf Course, the State Government seeks to position Adelaide as a top-tier destination for both international golfing events and local recreation, looking to enhance the city’s landscape and offer new, accessible activities to its residents and visitors alike.
WHAT: New bill to hand State full control of North Adelaide Golf Course
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