One of Adelaide’s most anticipated new neighbourhoods is getting ready to reach new heights, with fresh planning changes now open for public feedback at Southwark Grounds.
A draft code amendment proposes taller buildings across the former West End Brewery site, paving the way for more homes, more activity and a lively mixed-use community just minutes from the CBD. If approved, maximum building heights would rise from eight levels to up to 14 levels on the eastern side of the site, and up to 12 levels across the rest, with minimum heights sitting between two and four storeys.
The changes are designed to help Southwark Grounds live up to its potential as a modern inner-city precinct, blending new housing with retail, hospitality, public spaces and leafy green areas along the River Torrens.
Momentum is already building on site. The first buyers have signed on, with frames expected to be up by the end of 2025 for the initial 17 townhouses. Once complete, the development is set to deliver up to 1,300 new homes, including 20 per cent allocated as affordable housing.
Beyond housing, the masterplan leans heavily into sustainability and place-making. Targets include 30 per cent tree canopy coverage and a six Star Green Star rating, alongside upgrades to the Karrawirra Parri/River Torrens Linear Park. Heritage elements won’t be lost either, with plans to preserve and revitalise landmarks including the Walkerville Brew Tower, Theberton Cottage foundations and Riverside Gardens.
Identified as a priority growth area in the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan, Southwark Grounds has been earmarked as a key site for increasing housing close to jobs, education and transport. The draft amendment also proposes updates to the Airport Building Heights Overlay to align with Adelaide Airport requirements.
Housing and Urban Development Minister Nick Champion said the project represents a major opportunity for the city.
“It is vital that we maximise the potential of this site and ensure that the housing opportunities available at Southwark are completely utilised,” he said.
“Building more homes and increasing housing supply is the only way to address the national housing crisis.
“Our government will continue our momentum of building up and out in the right locations to ensure even more homes for South Australians are built.“
Public consultation on the draft Southwark Grounds Code Amendment is open now until 20 February, with South Australians invited to have their say.
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