In July 2023 we wrote to residents advising of the final master plan of the Chief Street Streetscape Upgrade, and to provide a timeline of the next steps involved. In this update we provide further information on the progress of design and the timing of construction.

Undergrounding of Powerlines, Detailed Design and Construction next steps

We have been progressing the detailed engineering design for the Chief Street project and have been working with SA Power Network (SAPN) representatives to enable the undergrounding of powerlines to commence as part of the 2023/24 financial year.

The undergrounding of powerlines is expected to start from April 2024. Residents that are directly impacted by the undergrounding of powerlines on Chief Street will be notified by SAPN at the time that they commence their works. The first stage of undergrounding work between First Street and Ethelbert Square is expected to take 12 months.

During the undergrounding of powerlines, we will continue to finalise the design for the roadway and will provide an update to the local community on the reconstruction and upgrade of the road as powerline works progress.

Chief Street Road Design

To view the endorsed concept design for the detailed design phase of Chief Street (between Port Road and Hawker Street) go to

Key features of this design for the future of Chief Street (between Port Road and Hawker Street) are:

• Undergrounding of power lines.
• Upgrade of the Chief Street and Hawker Street intersection
• 2m width footpaths on both sides.
• 2.5m wide bicycle path adjacent the footpath on the eastern side.
• On-street parking between tree beds on the western side (in approximate location of existing parking area).
• On-street parking adjacent the bicycle path on the eastern side.
• 6m wide vehicle carriageway located further east than the existing vehicle carriageway.
• Verge planting around street trees.
• Additional pedestrian crossings and improved pedestrian safety
• Rest areas at various locations along the street.
• Public art and heritage interpretation at key points of interest.

Former Gas Works Site & Streetscape Construction

The former gasworks site, adjacent Chief Street, is currently undergoing soil remediation works which is anticipated to have timing impacts to the civil construction of Chief Street.

To avoid any potential conflicts with the gasworks site and our streetscape upgrade, construction is programmed for the 2025/26 financial year, subject to future Council budget approval and timing of powerline undergrounding works.