Residents of Adelaide’s northern suburbs are set to see major improvements in local transportation and housing options following the opening of a new road extension. The 260m extension of Newton Boulevard has been completed. This new stretch is part of Playford Alive’s extensive development project and was officially opened to traffic today.
The newly completed road now connects the substantial housing estate directly to Stebonheath Road, providing an alternative route and relief from traffic congestion along Curtis Road. Spanning a total of 1.95 km, Newton Boulevard features dual single-lane carriageways divided by a landscaped median. This project is a crucial element of the SA Government’s $5.7 million civil works initiative, aimed at supporting the growth of the Playford Alive community.
The construction of Newton Boulevard is seen as crucial for providing better access to Mark Oliphant College, Adelaide North Special School, and over 1,300 newly planned residential units. These homes represent a significant push towards increasing local housing stock and are scheduled for imminent release to the market. The initial phase will see 35 blocks available for purchase starting this Thursday, with six earmarked as affordable housing options. This segment is expected to attract considerable interest from first home buyers and young families.
Addressing the need for affordable housing, Playford Alive commits to ensuring that at least 30% of its homes are accessible to lower-income families. With annual releases of around 240 allotments, the project aims to steadily contribute to easing the housing shortage in the area.
The economic benefit of the Playford Alive project is notable, with the ongoing development expected to support approximately 590 full-time jobs each year, injecting an estimated $570 million into the Gross State Product over its lifespan.
The state government has also initiated the sale of three development-ready land parcels within the Playford Alive town centre. This move marks one of the final opportunities for commercial expansion in the area, with two parcels capable of accommodating up to 20 homes, and a smaller lot planned for a multi-storey commercial building.
Since its inception in 2008, Playford Alive has been a key urban renewal project spanning 500 hectares across Andrews Farm, Munno Para, and other localities. The project has so far introduced thousands of new homes and critical infrastructure, including schools, medical facilities, and a sprawling $250 million town centre.
Upon completion, Playford Alive is expected to be home to more than 43,000 residents, significantly boosting the northern suburbs’ population and economic activity.
Nick Champion, MP and Minister for Housing and Urban Development said “By unlocking new allotments and improving local infrastructure, our Government is helping more South Australians realise their dream of home ownership.
“Initiatives like this, with a strong focus on affordability and community infrastructure, are key to addressing the housing needs of our growing population.”
Tony Piccolo, MP for Light, said “This new road will be very welcome by local residents who have been campaigning for some time.”
Lee Odenwalder, MP for Elizabeth, also shared “Congestion on Curtis Road is one of the biggest council-related issues that I hear about as I talk to locals.
“The extension of Newton Boulevard will not only help residents of the immediate suburbs, but also my constituents in Blakeview and Craigmore who use Curtis Road daily.
“I will continue to advocate for any measures which take the pressure off council roads like Curtis Road.”
The opening of Newton Boulevard marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Adelaide’s northern suburbs, promising enhanced connectivity, increased housing options, and sustained economic growth.
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