Bowden’s first pedestrian and bike friendly streets will be opened to the public on Saturday.

Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and part of Gibson streets will open for full public use marking the completion of Stage one road works and parks.

More than 2,400 homes will eventually be built in Bowden with about 3,500 new residents expected to move in during the next 15 years, including opportunities for business to operate in a vibrant, walkable community close to the city.

Premier Jay Weatherill said the design make-over showcases Bowden’s shared streets that allow pedestrians, bikes and cars to safely negotiate this emerging neighbourhood on the edge of the Parklands.

“It is a new style of street with no kerbs and a more open feel, they are shared streets which encourage mixed use and prioritise pedestrians and cyclists,” Mr Weatherill said.

“A combined street party and ‘Fork on the Road’ event, with its pop-up gourmet food vendors, is a fun and tasty way to celebrate and demonstrate our new approach to streets and open space.

“What a way to celebrate this milestone, the re-opening of these streets and the completion of the Stage 1 public parks just one year after construction began. Fifth Street, in particular, is being returned to the community after many years of closure to accommodate industry.”

Minister for Housing and Urban Development Tom Koutsantonis said the project has delivered streets that support walking and cycling and create safe and healthy neighbourhoods.

“Bowden is being developed as a ‘people first’ precinct with a promise to deliver a unique and vibrant community while embracing existing culture,” Mr Koutsantonis said.

Bowden street designs include the following key elements or principles:

• Pedestrian and cycle friendly with cycle parking with vehicle speed of 25-30km/h
• Limited parking; generally to one side of the road.
• High quality and high amenity public realm including trees, landscaping, art and seating
• Continuous high-quality street pavements
• Opportunities for socialising and rest.