The scope of the Gibson Street upgrade from Eighth Street to Thirteenth Street, endorsed by Council in November 2023 includes:

• A driveway link between Seventh Street and Eighth Street intersections (already complete)
• Renewal of Road Assets (Surface, Pavement and Kerb & Gutter assets where required)
• Renewal of all footpaths (proposed to be a mix of red clay and grey pavers) to ensure DDA compliance.
• Renewal of kerb access ramps
• Kerb build‐outs on the northern side of the street at intersections to promote a slow speed environment
• A new threshold treatment at the intersection of Gibson Street and Ninth Street
• Improving the tree canopy in the street with suitable tree species for built up and established urban environments.

The infrastructure assets in Gibson Street are approaching the end of their useful life. Renewing footpaths, roads, and incorporating kerb buildouts is a key element of our asset renewal strategy, aimed at enhancing pedestrian connectivity and ensuring the safety and accessibility of our community. These upgrades will create a more walkable environment, improve access to local amenities, and support local businesses.

The addition of kerb buildouts will further enhance pedestrian safety by shortening crossing distances and increasing visibility at intersections.

The Gibson Street upgrade aims to improve the street's overall quality for residents but also create a more connected, vibrant community.

Undergrounding of the powerlines was considered by Council, due to high cost and public risk (during removal), Council resolved to bring forward the construction of the road and streetscape but not proceed the removal of the above ground electrical infrastructure. We are investigating the feasibility of undergrounding isolated single powerlines on the Eastern side of the street where the cost is not prohibitive and there is a need to achieve Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant access along the path network. This approach was endorsed by Council in November 2023.

March 2025
We are continuing to work with SA Power Networks and our internal designers to investigate the feasibility of undergrounding poles on the eastern side of Gibson Street between Eighth and Hawker Street and on the northern side of Tenth Street.

Updates on this will be provided once we have final confirmation.

In 2016 we consulted with the Bowden community on the future public realm improvements for the historic Bowden Precinct and since that time have completed a number of upgrades with the historical streets in the area. These include a Bowden One-way system, renewal of Eighth Street, Ninth Street, Tenth Street, Eleventh Street (partial) as well as Market Place and Thirteenth Street.

We consulted in August/September 2024 on the proposed streetscape tree planting plan, offering two options for the street. Refer to the previous consultation button on this page, for all the information.

In March 2025 we provided an updated concept featuring a hybrid solution, based on all previous feedback.

In November 2023 Council resolved to consult on options for the tree species for the street to improve the tree canopy with suitable tree species for Gibson Street. Staff have identified two suitable options for trees in the street. They are Bottlebrush trees and Crepe Myrtle trees.

Bottlebrush trees are already existing in the street and offer vibrant floral displays and attract local wildlife. Crepe Myrtles provide seasonal flowers and a compact canopy, making them ideal for urban settings. Both species are well suited to the existing above and below ground infrastructure and road width.

The selected tree species will be planted as the footpath and kerb construction reaches completion. The trees will then be maintained until they are established and mature.

The tree species identified that are suitable for the street have been previously endorsed by Council for planting in the broader historic Bowden precinct. These species are also suitable for planting in built up urban areas where there are around above ground and below ground infrastructure.

Neither selection will cause impact to accessibility. The footpath will be designed to meet Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliance standard.

Construction is planned as part of the 2025/26 financial year and residents and stakeholders will be notified closer to the commencement date.