Burke Urban Investments is currently undertaking a revision of the masterplan for the Mount Barker Town Centre project. The changes to the masterplan have resulted in a delay in the commencement of the project’s construction which was originally planned to start in August this year.

A number of project elements are affected by the review of the masterplan.

Car parking

After further on-site investigations, including geo-technical investigations, it became apparent that the originally proposed car parking design and layout (substantial underground car parking) was too costly due to unexpected high groundwater.

Consequently, we examined car parking options to cover the project site as well as Mount Barker as a whole. A purpose-built multi-deck car park is also not considered to be viable for the site. We are considering a number of potential off-site solutions for staff working on the site to maximise visitor parking.

Community Engagement

Council is very aware that we have not had significant engagement with the community since consultation on the town square in November 2021. A community engagement strategy was endorsed by Council in late 2022 and we are currently updating this with new timelines for forming of a community reference group and other engagement activities in the strategy.

Town Square

The final design of the Town Square will follow the revision of the master plan and further community engagement. In the meantime, Council is considering the installation of a temporary pop-up square along Morphett Street to activate the site. We are currently running an Expression of Interest process for event services on this temporary square. The EOI closes in late August with a pop-up square to be installed before Christmas 2023 following Council consideration.

Commercial

Along with the master plan review, ongoing discussion between council and private partner Burke Urban Investments (BUI) are being held regarding the commercial arrangements for the delivery and occupation of the site.

Integrated Community Hub (Library)

Proposed library services and community facilities on the site are being further considered. Further community engagement on any plans in this regard will occur at a later stage once staging and timing are better known with the review of the master plan.

Council decision making

Council is closely following the project’s progress and will formally consider aspects of it in the coming months.

Project timeline (indicative)

• Temporary pop-up square to be installed by summer 2023.
• In September 23 Council will consider for endorsement the proposed community engagement strategy, including establishing a community reference group.
• Community engagement on a number of aspects of the master plan will commence following Council’s endorsement of the community engagement strategy and through the pop-up square activation over summer 2023/24.
• Master plan review completed by early 2024 followed by concept design for the Town Square and commercial structures.