The next step in revitalising Adelaide – the improvement of the city’s underused laneways – will begin with the closure to traffic of historic Leigh Street for a six-month trial period starting on Monday 30 July. 

The closure was announced today by the Premier Jay Weatherill, Deputy Premier and Planning Minister John Rau and Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood. 

Mr Weatherill said the project, which builds on the street’s existing strengths, is the first of a series of laneway upgrades which will eventually link the rejuvenated Riverbank precinct with the Central Market. 

“Leigh Street is the ideal choice to begin the revival of the city’s laneways, with its already strong pedestrian activity and thriving businesses, cafés and restaurants,” he said. 

“Bringing life to the city’s streets and laneways – and also its squares, parks and terraces – is a key part of Adelaide’s exciting future as a vibrant and active place for residents, workers and visitors.”

This project – the first of many – has grown out of work by the Integrated Design Commission and the desire of the Government and Adelaide City Council to bring more residents and life to the city.

Zis Ginos of Ginos Group, owners of Leigh Street, said the changes were exciting. 

“Leigh Street is already a popular, cosmopolitan part of Adelaide,” he said. “The closure is bound to bring more people to the street and that is great for visitors and businesses alike.”

Bollards will be used to block the middle section of Leigh Street to vehicles. At both ends of the street there will be 10 kph drop-off zones, shared by vehicles and pedestrians. Right-hand turns from Currie Street are no longer permitted and, from 30 July, right-hand turns from Leigh Street on to Hindley Street will also be prevented. 

Traffic studies will monitor the impact of the change, supplemented with pedestrian surveys. Businesses in the street have been consulted extensively. 

Lord Mayor Stephen Yarwood said the Leigh Street closure would build on the street’s cosmopolitan feel. 

“This move is about more people spending more time in the city,” he said. “It will create a space for people to enjoy the best of what Adelaide has to offer,” he said. 

Deputy Premier and Planning Minister John Rau said the Leigh Street transformation included an initial Government contribution of $50,000 towards works in the street including new planter boxes, trees and street seating.

“The Leigh Street project won’t cost the earth, but I believe it will show how small changes can help laneways grow into people-friendly places with cafes, alfresco dining, music, small bars and more,” he said.