Three-Tower North Adelaide Development Wins Approval

A three-tower, mixed-use residential development proposed for the former Le Cornu site in Adelaide has been given the green light.

Adelaide City Council acquired the site at 88 O’Connell Street in 2018 after it had lain dormant for more than 30 years, with plans to renew the North Adelaide landmark and deliver public value.

A Commercial & General proposed development application was approved by he State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) to begin the $250-million renewal project of two 13-storey towers and one 15-storey tower, connected by a two-storey podium.

The plans included retail and commercial tenancies on the ground, first and second floors, and 160 apartments and four penthouses across the remaining levels, and two basement levels with almost 400 car parking spaces.

In its report, SCAP said the building had “carefully considered the external impacts of the building on the streetscape”.

According to council documents, the development would “enhance the vibrancy of one of the city’s premier streets, bringing new residents and businesses to the area while supporting existing businesses”.

“The council has taken control of this site because of its strategic importance to the future of North Adelaide as a commercial and residential district,” a council document stated.

“The site was acquired to ensure a timely and suitable development that is fiscally responsible and delivers public value.”

The council selected Adelaide-based developer Commercial & General through an expressions of interest campaign to transform the landmark, and the Adelaide-founded Woods Bagot has been engaged as architects.

According to Commercial & General, the development brings together a “proudly South Australian project team that is determined to create an enduring legacy”.

The towers will have views to the ocean, city and the Adelaide Hills and include resident amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, sauna and squash court.

Construction was due to begin in mid-2022, and would support about 430 jobs during construction and up to 500 ongoing roles once completed in 2024.