Semaphore Foreshore Project

Will Semaphore still feel like Semaphore when it's finished?

Yes. Maintaining what makes Semaphore special has been a key priority throughout the project.

The goal is to enhance what people already love about Semaphore, not replace it. The final design reflects community input and seeks to preserve the character, identity and family-friendly atmosphere that people value.

Why change the foreshore at all? People like it the way it is.

We know Semaphore holds a special place in the community and many people value it just as it is. That connection has been central in shaping this project.

The upgrade is not about changing what people love about Semaphore. It is about protecting and improving the foreshore so it can continue to serve the community well into the future.

While the foreshore remains a much-loved destination, several existing assets and pieces of infrastructure have reached, or are approaching, the end of their service life and require renewal.

The project has been designed to improve accessibility, recreation opportunities, shade, public amenities and open space, while maintaining the relaxed, family-friendly character and open coastal feel that people value most about Semaphore. Community feedback has strongly influenced the final design and helped guide these improvements.

Assets requiring renewal or upgrade include:
• Kiosk building
• Northern toilet block
• Train depot shed
• Promenade and associated stormwater infrastructure
• Half basketball court
• Skate park
• Electrical infrastructure that supports events and activities

By investing in these upgrades now, we can renew ageing infrastructure, improve the day-to-day experience of foreshore users and ensure Semaphore continues to meet the needs of residents and visitors for many years to come.

Is this going to turn Semaphore into another Henley Square?

No. The Semaphore Foreshore upgrade is not focused on increased commercialisation or fundamentally changing the identity of Semaphore.

Community feedback consistently highlighted the importance of retaining Semaphore's unique character, and this has been a key design consideration throughout the project.

The focus is on improving accessibility, recreation, shade, open space and public amenities while preserving what makes Semaphore unique.

Is this project like the Jetty Road, Glenelg upgrade?

No. While both projects involve upgrades to popular public spaces, they are very different in scale and context.

Unlike Jetty Road, this project does not involve a major road corridor and has limited direct interfaces with adjacent businesses and public transport services. Based on current planning, the anticipated construction period is also substantially shorter.

We are working closely with delivery partners to develop staging and access arrangements that minimise disruption wherever possible, and detailed information will be shared once construction planning is finalised.

How has community feedback influenced the design?

Community feedback has helped shape the final design, including three rounds of community engagement with over 980 contributions received from residents, businesses, community groups, event organisers and local schools.

Feedback consistently highlighted the importance of maintaining Semaphore's character while improving accessibility, shade, recreation opportunities and public amenities. These themes are reflected throughout the final design.

A detailed summary of engagement activities and project evolution is available on Participate PAE.

How much will the Semaphore Foreshore Project cost?

We have currently allocated $25 million for the Semaphore Foreshore Project.

We are in the final stages of appointing a contractor and the final contract value is still being negotiated. As a result, the total project cost will be confirmed once contractual arrangements have been completed.

The project includes renewal of ageing infrastructure, accessibility improvements, public amenities, recreation facilities, landscaping, shade, stormwater improvements and other works required to ensure the foreshore continues to meet the needs of the community into the future.

Why is PAE investing in this project when cost of living is so high?

We understand cost of living pressures are a real concern for many people in the community.

This project is a long-term investment in one of the region's most important public spaces. It includes essential infrastructure renewal, accessibility improvements and upgrades that need to occur regardless of the broader improvements being delivered.

Significant underground infrastructure and stormwater works are required within the precinct. Delivering these works as part of a coordinated upgrade reduces duplication, avoids future disruption and represents a more efficient use of public funds.

The project has also secured external funding, including:
• $750,000 from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing
• $13,824 from the Commonwealth Government for beach wheelchairs (subject to procurement)

What improvements will the community see?

The upgrade will deliver:
• Improved accessibility for people of all ages and abilities
• New and upgraded play spaces
• A reconfigured activity hub (sports half court and skate park)
• More shade and seating
• More green space
• Improved amenities
• Upgraded infrastructure
• Enhanced event capability
• Improved beach accessibility

The design includes:
• An additional 264m² of green space (total 15820m²)
• A reduction of 1,873m² of paved surfaces (total 11680m²)
• An additional 1,032m² of covered shade (total 1561m²)
• 147 new trees
• An extra 904m² of events and amusement space (total 9905m²)
• An extra 82m² of activity hub (total 454m²)
The figures above are based on the current design and may be refined as the project progresses through detailed delivery planning.

Will any trees be removed? Will there be more shade?

No trees are currently planned for removal as part of the project.

The existing 19 regulated and significant palms will be carefully relocated within the foreshore precinct maximise the event lawn space and shade the new playground.

Yes. There will be more shade provided by tree canopy coverage, and both built and structural canopy shade.

The project will:
• Plant 147 new trees
• Increase overall shade coverage
• Deliver an additional shade structure over the playground and activity hub, seating shelters across the site and extensive shade over the waterplay space (approx. an additional 589m² of public shade structures)

Increasing shade and improving the quality of green space has been a key focus of the design.

How does the project support the environment and coastline?

The upgrade includes several environmental benefits.

These include:
• Increased permeable surfaces to reduce stormwater runoff
• Native tree, shrub and groundcover planting
• Improved stormwater management to reduce potential for debris and weeds entering dune areas
• Amber lighting along the Promenade to minimise disturbance to sand dune fauna
• Use of locally sourced building materials where practicable
• Architecturally designed buildings and structures that complement the site's existing character and enhance visual amenity across the foreshore

These improvements will help support the long-term health of the foreshore environment.

What accessibility improvements are being included?

The project includes a range of improvements designed to make the foreshore easier to access and enjoy for people of all ages and abilities.

Key accessibility initiatives include:
• A new accessible ramp to the northern toilet block that complies with Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) requirements
• A permanent accessible beach access ramp adjacent to the jetty
• Accessible pathways connecting key destinations across the foreshore
• Accessible seating areas integrated throughout the site
• Beach wheelchair hire facilities
• An accessible changing place and accessible public toilets within the new kiosk building
• Upgraded accessible toilet and baby changing facilities within the northern toilet block
• Inclusive playground equipment designed to support a range of ages and abilities
• Water play elements designed to cater to people with different abilities through thoughtful design, materials and play experiences
• Improved access to recreational facilities and community spaces
• Upgraded path lighting throughout the site to support safety and accessibility

Together, these improvements will help create a more inclusive foreshore that can be enjoyed by everyone, while improving access from arrival through to beach and recreation experiences.

What changes are being made to lighting?

Lighting has been carefully designed to improve safety, accessibility and usability while being mindful of nearby residents and the environment.

The activity hub lighting will:
• Operate using a smart control system
• Include timers
• Restrict operation during late-night periods

Along the Promenade:
• New amber-coloured lighting will be used
• Lighting will minimise impacts on local fauna
• Safety and accessibility will continue to be supported

When will construction start and how long will it take?

Construction is currently planned to commence in February 2027.

The anticipated construction period is approximately 11 months, however final timing and staging will be confirmed following contractor appointment and detailed construction planning.

The timing has been selected to minimise impacts during the foreshore's busiest periods, including summer and major events.

How will construction be staged and what disruption should I expect?

Detailed staging is currently being developed with the preferred tenderer.

Construction will be staged to minimise impacts on the community wherever possible.

While some temporary disruptions should be expected, including noise, access changes and reduced availability of some areas, we are working closely with delivery partners to minimise impacts.

More detailed information about staging, timing and impacted areas will be shared once the construction contractor has been appointed and planning is finalised.

Will the foreshore remain accessible during construction?

The aim is to maintain public access wherever possible during construction.

There may be temporary changes to:
• Pedestrian access
• Cycling routes
• Beach access
• Parking
• Access to the toilet block
• Access to the Jetty

Clear signage, wayfinding and project updates will help the community navigate any temporary changes.

Accessibility requirements will continue to be considered throughout construction planning.

What will happen to parking?

The project does not reduce the existing number of public parking spaces.

There are currently 734 public parking spaces along the Esplanade between Bower Road and Derby St (including car parks and on street parking), and 141 parks along Semaphore Rd between the Esplanade and Military Rd.

During construction, some temporary parking impacts will occur to accommodate site establishment and construction activities. These arrangements are still being finalised and will be communicated once confirmed.

Will beach and jetty access be affected?

The project includes an accessible beach access ramp near the jetty.

The jetty is expected to close for a short period during construction to allow paving and access ramp works to occur.

The timing and duration of any closure are still being determined and will be communicated once construction planning is complete.

How will local businesses be supported during construction?

We recognise the importance of local businesses to Semaphore.

Planning is underway to understand any construction impacts and identify opportunities to minimise disruption.

We will continue working with businesses and key stakeholders as staging is confirmed.

What does this mean for events, amusements and the Summer Carnival?

We are committed to retaining and supporting events and amusements at Semaphore.

The project timing has been developed with major events in mind and seeks to minimise disruption wherever possible.

The carousel has been a feature of Semaphore for more than 80 years. It will remain in its current location.

Noting:

• Existing events have been considered as part of project planning, and organisers will continue to be engaged throughout construction.
• The 2026/27 Summer Carnival is not expected to be impacted. Future arrangements will be communicated once operational and procurement matters have been finalised.
• The ANZAC Day Dawn Service will proceed.

What is happening with the steam train?

The steam train will remain at Semaphore.

The station will be relocated approximately 180 metres south of its current location.

The move:

• Reduces congestion in the central foreshore area
• Improves pedestrian movement and access
• Creates better connections between areas of the foreshore
• Supports the upgraded activity hub and surrounding spaces

The relocation will also reduce the length of fenced railway track along the Promenade by approximately 120 metres.

Are the monuments staying?

Yes. The existing monuments will be maintained in their current locations within the main plaza. This includes the Protector Gun, the anchor and the Angel statue.

What improvements are being made to the playspace and activity hub?

The playspace has been heavily influenced by community and student feedback.

Improvements include:
• New and upgraded play experiences
• Inclusive play opportunities
• Berry and rush-inspired play elements connected to local landscape and Kaurna cultural themes

The activity hub includes:
• Reconfigured skate park
• Multi-use sports court (accommodating 3×3 basketball, pickleball, netball, and foursquare)
• Shaded spectator areas
• New lighting and smart lighting controls