South Australia

Location: North Adelaide

Threat: Demolition and Inappropriate Redevelopment

Statement of Significance

North Adelaide is a distinctive area of substantial cultural significance which still retains its original street layout and parkland boundaries, as designed by William Light. The full sweep of 19 century building types are represented within North Adelaide, with some 140 individual buildings listed for their architectural significance.

The National Trust has been committed to seeing the unique character and historic significance of North Adelaide recognised and protected, and in 1980 successfully nominated it as a Conservation Area to the Register of the National Estate, which only provides protection from Commonwealth actions.

Description of Threat

Major economic changes in recent years have found North Adelaide coming under considerable development pressure with many places being converted, demolished or compromised such that the heritage character of the whole area is under genuine threat. Culturally important buildings at 118 Strangways Terrace, 103 - 104 MacKinnon Parade, and a number of properties in Finniss Street have either been demolished or are being considered for demolition.

Action Required

The National Trust believes North Adelaide warrants special consideration, and that it should be declared an Historic Conservation Zone, by the preparation of a Plan Amendment Report by the Minister or by the Adelaide City Council under the Development Act. This would have the effect of requiring developments to maintain or enhance the historic character of the area.

The National Trust also seeks a moratorium on all demolitions in North Adelaide until the process of establishing North Adelaide as a Historic Conservation Zone is complete.