Features of historical significance at the former Clipsal site and Brompton Gaswork site at Bowden will be identified and recorded for future generations as part of the State Government’s redevelopment plans for the Bowden Urban Village precinct.

The South Australian Government’s Land Management Corporation (LMC) – which is managing the Bowden Urban Village project that will ultimately be home to more than 3,000 residents – has commissioned a cultural and industrial heritage study of the 16 hectare site off Park Terrace.

The primary aim of the study is to work with key stakeholders and members of the local community to identify and record elements of historical significance and to recommend how those features could be incorporated into the future residential development.

Bowden was the site of one of the first villages and train stations outside of the City of Adelaide dating back to 1839, when it was the location of such key trades as brick making and leather production.

LMC has engaged a highly experienced consultancy team comprising DASH Architects, and specialists in researching and interpreting issues of historical significance, to undertake the cultural mapping study, which is expected to be completed in early 2011.

LMC Chief Executive Wayne Gibbings says the study will ensure elements of the cultural and historical identity of the Bowden site will be preserved in an area that has been earmarked for significant change.

“Cultural mapping will identify artefacts, objects, structures, activities and stories that can either be incorporated into the Bowden Urban Village development or interpreted through different methods throughout the development area,” Mr Gibbings said.

Examples of the ways in which Bowden’s heritage can be retained or commemorated for future generations include the development of public art, precinct signage, and heritage trails as well as the preservation or recording of unique features such as historic industrial building facades.

To guide the consultancy team in undertaking the study, LMC has established a Steering Group, comprising representatives from local key community groups.

Organisations that have to date committed to being on the Steering Group are: the Hindmarsh Historical Society Inc., Bowden Residents Action Group, Hindmarsh Greening and Adelaide & Inner Suburbs branch of the National Trust as well a representative from the City of Charles Sturt.

“We felt it was very important to have a steering group representing people with local knowledge as they would be a tremendous help to the consultancy team in identifying important aspects of Bowden’s industrial and cultural heritage,” Mr Gibbings said.

Anyone who would like to contribute with a story or memory relating to the Clipsal Site, Brompton Gaswork Site, Gibson Street and surrounding area, is encouraged to email: [email protected] or telephone the Bowden Urban Village project enquiry line 1800 993 439.

Note to Editors:

LMC is a key economic agency of the State Government, managing within a commercial framework a significant portfolio of land assets on behalf of the State Government. Working under the theme ‘Delivering places for people’, LMC creates, facilitates and implements residential, commercial and industrial development projects that benefit the community and create economic growth while also addressing design excellence, provision for community infrastructure, high-quality environmental outcomes and a diversity of housing.

More information about LMC can be found by visiting www.lmc.sa.gov.au.