Residents in the Southern Gawler Rural areas have welcomed the announcement by the South Australian Planning Commission (SAPC) that their area will be reviewed for possible urban development in the future, as part of the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan (GARP).

Over 80 local residents attended a community meeting on Sunday afternoon to hear from the Chair of the SAPC, Mr Craig Holden, of how they can become involved in the process, and the timeframes for new policies to adopted.

The meeting was arranged by local Member of Parliament, Mr Tony Piccolo who said that it was important for local residents to hear about and understand what the GARP process was all about.

Mr Holden told the residents the SAPC was keen to hear their views on what the community’s vision was for the area, and what issues needed to be addressed.

In addition to initial consultation, which closes on the 6th November, residents will get another opportunity to comment when the draft plan when it is released in mid-2024.

Mr Piccolo said he was keen to ensure that the State Government, through the State Planning Commission, understood what local residents believe what the future character of the area should look like.

“It was clear from the meeting that residents did not trust the council to make a submission that reflected their aspirations for their community,” said Mr Piccolo.

“Sadly, this area has been a planning battleground for close for to 30 years, and this is the first opportunity that residents have had to directly engage with the State Government through the Commission.”

“Residents are pleased that the Council is not the gatekeeper in this process.”

“Residents aired their grievances about how council has ignored and blocked any discussion for meaningful change in the area.”

“Access to infrastructure, creating urban breaks, and how to build connected, sustainable communities are all issues that will need to be discussed and resolved.”

Mr Piccolo said he will be holding a workshop with residents this coming Sunday to help them make a joint submission to the Commission.”

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