The State Government’s Bowden Village project has received a massive boost with Infrastructure Minister Patrick Conlon today announcing the purchase of the neighbouring former gas works site from Origin Energy.

The purchase of the 5.7-hectare site adjacent to the Government owned 10.3-hectare former Clipsal site means the Bowden Village project will now span 16 hectares.

Mr Conlon says it is a fantastic opportunity to expand the innovative Transit Oriented Development (TOD) planned for the former Clipsal site.

“This is not just about removing an eye-sore from Bowden, it is about a world class development that will rejuvenate the local area,” he said.

“As part of the 30 Year Plan for Greater Adelaide we intend to create a series of TODs across Adelaide with Bowden Village the centrepiece on the City’s doorstep.

“Our planning reforms, complemented by the unprecedented $2 billion public transport revolution will allow this area to be transformed into a high density mixed use development that reduces the reliance on cars.

“It will include cafes, specialty shops, a mix of housing, offices and open space, all within walking distance and adjacent to the Adelaide Parklands.

“Bowden Village will demonstrate world’s best practice with regard to sustainability, community building and design excellence.

“It is these types of developments we want to see located alongside our new electrified rail and tram lines – in this case the electrified Outer Harbor line and the tram extension to Port Adelaide.

“The expansion of the former Clipsal site development means it will provide around 2,000 dwellings for 3,500 people plus staff for retail and commercial premises.”

Under the deal, the State Government paid a token amount of $1. Origin will contribute $12 million towards the remediation of the land to be carried out by the Government’s Land Management Corporation (LMC).

Remediation work is anticipated to start in 2011 with an estimated total cost of up to $30 million.

The development of both the Clipsal and Origin sites will occur in a coordinated manner, with civil works construction expected to commence on the Clipsal site in 2011. The Bowden Urban Village project will be developed over an 8 to 10 year period.

The Origin site was once owned by the old SA Gas Company (SAGASCO) and became Origin Energy property as a result of privatisation. The site is no longer used by Origin.

“All State listed heritage items including the imposing heritage wall, chimney and bluestone shed will be retained as part of the future development of the site,” said Mr Conlon.

“We want to bring the life back to the inner suburbs through use of urban infill development at the same time as being able to curb the ever-expanding greenfields development at the fringes of the metropolitan area.

“By purchasing the Origin site and integrating it into our plans, we will now be able to improve the benefits delivered to the local community.”

This Media Release was issued by Hon Patrick Conlon, Infrastructure Minister on 22 February 2010.