Project update August 2024

Onsite construction works commenced mid-July and the site is already looking very different.

Most of the demolition works are already completed and the construction of the new rock wall is underway.

The image below shows the progress so far.

It is anticipated construction will be complete by mid-2025.

For safety, the whole area, including the car park, public toilet and watercraft launch area will be fenced off and inaccessible to the public while works are underway.

You can find more information about alternative launch sites here.

Access to council’s Sauerbier House Cultural Exchange and aquatic user groups located at Wearing Street will remain open however parking will be limited.

The council-approved Stage 2 design includes:

• expanded aquatic launch area with two beach access ramps.
• viewing shelter with seating.
• new public toilet and outdoor shower.
• reconfigured car park.
• improved access to the precinct and traffic management.

The Riverfront and Mann Street upgrade is jointly funded by the City of Onkaparinga and a $1.65 million Open Space Grant from the South Australian Government.

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Wearing Street Precinct redevelopment

This unique location adjoins the coastal sand dune system and the bank of the Onkaparinga River/Ngangkiparri. Since the early 1930s, it has been a popular community attraction and a hub for aquatic sport and recreational activities.

Despite its popularity, the site is in a poor state of repair with multiple failing assets that needs investment to meet current and future community needs.

Council recognises the unique environment and cultural significance of this site, and the potential it offers to the community. We have actively engaged with the community and the State Government over an extended period to address the increasing demand for a high quality ‘premier aquatic destination in the south’.

This significant redevelopment will revitalise the historic riverfront area to meet current and future community needs, improving the quality, safety and appeal of the open space to create a destination drawcard, delivering on the potential of this spectacular location.

The Wearing Street Precinct redevelopment is being delivered in stages. The recently completed, Stage 1 involved replacing shed structures with purpose built modern aquatic facilities for existing user groups, while Stage 2 focuses on upgrading the riverfront and public space. Stage 2 has secured funding from both the State Government Open Space Grant program and council to transform this aquatic based community hub.

The project has the following objectives;

• upgrade the riverfront area including a new shelter, new public toilet, seating, lawn, and landscaping.
• demolish the existing revetment wall and construct a new wall with two access ramps in the designated location to provide a larger and safer launching area for watercrafts.
• reconfigure the riverfront car park to offer a combination of car and trailer parking options.
• upgrade Wearing Street and formalise Mann Street to provide improved access to the precinct and traffic management.
• improve the functionality and appeal of the area and support increased community participation in healthy and social activities.