Swanbury Penglase architects of human space
244 Gilbert Street Adelaide SA 5000 Australia
T +61 8 8212 2679 [email protected]
F +61 8 8212 3162 swanburypenglase.com
ABN 36 008 202 775
In association with
Urban and Regional Planning Solutions
Gawler River Open Space Strategy
Prepared for
Gawler River Floodplain Management Authority
Job No. 07043
Date: MAY 2009
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Project Team
The Gawler River Open Space Strategy has been prepared by URPS and Swanbury
Penglase on behalf of the Gawler River Floodplain Management Authority.
The funding contribution of the Adelaide and Mt Lofty Ranges Natural Resources
Management Board is acknowledged. The consultant team also wish to
acknowledge the assistance of the following people in the preparation of the
Open Space Strategy:
Project Reference Group
- Fred Pedler – Gawler River Floodplain Management Authority
- Keith Smith – Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges Natural Resource Management Board
- Dr Bruce Eastick – Gawler River Floodplain Management Authority
- Henri Mueller – District Council of Mallala
- Peter Chapple – City of Playford
- Michael Wohlstadt – Town of Gawler
- Andrew Philpott – Light Regional Council
- Shauna Potter – Urban Forest Biodiversity Program
- George Girgolas – Thornborough Estate Pty Ltd
- Matthew Lang – Planning SA
- Cr Anne Picard – District Council of Mallala
Thank you all for your valuable contribution.
Acknowledgments
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg Job no. 07043
CONTENTS
Table of Contents
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
Acknowledgments
2
Introduction
4
Analysis
5
Key Map
8
Analysis Map A
9
Analysis Map B
10
Analysis Map C
11
Analysis Map D
12
Action Plan
13
Recommended Actions Map A
16
Recommended actions Map B
17
Recommended Actions Map C
18
Recommended Actions Map D
19
Priority Area 1 - Bakers Road Wetland
20
Priority Area 2 -Angle Vale
21
Priority Area 3 - Northern Expressway Crossing
22
Priority Area 4 - Gawler
23
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INTRODUCTION
1.
INTRODUCTION
1.1
THE GAWLER RIVER
Forming an east-west corridor from the hills to the coast, the Gawler
River is the largest and most significant watercourse in the Northern
Adelaide Plains. The River begins at the junction of the North and South
Para Rivers in the town of Gawler. It then flows across the Northern
Adelaide Plains and drains into St Vincent’s Gulf at Port Gawler.
Many parts of the Gawler River feature a ‘U’ shaped channel with steep
banks, which makes it often difficult to gain access to the river bed.
Deep, permanent waterholes occur at intervals along the River,
particularly in the lower reaches, which provide valuable refuges for
aquatic fauna and waterbirds. The bed is often densely vegetated with
reeds and bulrush, and a range of other wetland plants.
The total catchment area of the Gawler River is 1,070 square kilometres
which is mostly in the higher rainfall regions of the Mount Lofty Ranges
and is attributable to the North and South Para Rivers. Flows in the
Gawler River are seasonal, occurring most years during winter. Large
flood flows occur, on average, every 10 years, which can result in
damaging flooding of the surrounding areas.
Throughout its length, the River is well vegetated with substantial stands
of River Red Gums (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), including many large,
magnificent trees of considerable age, as well as some River Box
(Eucalyptus largiflorens), River Willow (Acacia salicina), and Lignum
(Muehlenbeckia florulentum). Generally, the native understorey is sparse,
replaced by introduced weeds and a range of pest plants, such as
bamboo, boxthorn, artichoke and burrs.
The River is, generally, in private ownership, making many sections
unavailable to the public. The extraction of loam and sands has been
carried out for many years along the length of the River, resulting in many
disused loam pits either adjacent to the River, or within the channel
itself, some of which have been used for dumping of rubbish in the past.
Some loam pits are still operating.
1.2
THE GAWLER RIVER FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
AUTHORITY
Following the multiple floods of 1992, a State Government Task Force
commenced a process to undertake studies of the flooding of the Gawler
River that, over a number of years, led to the development of the Gawler
River Flood Mitigation Scheme. The partners of that process, the State
Government, the Northern Adelaide and Barossa Catchment Water
Management Board and the Constituent Councils, agreed that the
Scheme needed to be managed by a single entity. This was designed to
overcome the large number of organisations with administrative
interests in the outcome of the works, to deliver the project and to
provide for the ongoing maintenance of the works.
As a consequence, in 2002, the Gawler River Floodplain Management
Authority (GRFMA) was formed as a Local Government Regional
Subsidiary by the catchment Councils being Adelaide Hills Council, the
Barossa Council, Town of Gawler, Light Regional Council, District Council
of Mallala and City of Playford.
Since its inception, the GRFMA has established a work program to
address the flooding issues associated with the Gawler River. This work
program features three main components:
- The construction of a Flood Control Dam on the North Para River near
Gawler. (Completed December 2007)
- The raising of the dam wall of the South Para Reservoir by up to 156
centimetres and modifications to the dam spillway to provide a flood
attenuation capability to the dam – this work will be undertaken by SA
Water.
- Completion of the Mapping Project to identify the impact of the March
2007 estimates and to identify strategies to mitigate the impact of
flooding. (Stage One completed February 2008)
1.3 PURPOSE OF THIS PROJECT
The GRFMA has commissioned URPS, in association with Swanbury
Penglase, to prepare an Open Space Strategy for the Gawler River. The
Open Space Strategy will establish a strategic framework to coordinate
efforts to improve and manage open space along the Gawler River from
the confluence to the marine outfall.
The project has been undertaken in accordance with the following five
stages:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Background research.
Site Analysis and Preparation of Issues Paper.
Preliminary Consultation.
Draft Open Space Strategy Plan.
Additional Consultation.
1.4 PURPOSE OF THE OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
The Open Space Strategy provides a framework which coordinates the
actions of the various Councils and Government Departments while
recommending strategies and actions to address environmental and
recreational issues. It brings together the results of the background
research and site analysis together with an assessment of the
environmental values, landscape character and recreational usage of the
River. It identifies the key issues confronting the river and provides an
Action Plan designed to improve the management of the river.
Introduction
Flood flows generally are confined to the channel by levees which have
been constructed in most cases very close to the tops of banks.
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
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ANALYSIS
2.
2.1
ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter provides a summary of the background research undertaken
during the preparatory stages of the Open Space Strategy. It identifies a
range of issues and opportunities facing the Gawler River which are also
illustrated on the Analysis maps following this chapter.
2.2
STRATEGIC AND LEGISLATIVE CONTEXT
The Gawler River Open Space Strategy sits within a strategic and
legislative context established by State and Local Governments. The State
Government, through its various strategies, and local councils, through
their Strategic Management Plans, provide a comprehensive framework
which guides the distribution of resources. In addition, State and Local
Governments are responsible for the implementation of a wide range of
legislation which impacts on the management and maintenance of open
space.
During the preparation of this Open Space Strategy, careful consideration
was given to all Government legislation and strategies which may be of
relevance to the management of the Gawler River. In summary, it was
found that:
- The State Government, through its strategic plans, strongly supports the
provision of recreational facilities and initiatives which encourage greater
physical activity.
- The Gawler River has been identified by a number of State, Regional and
Local strategic plans as being suitable for the development of a
linear park which provides recreational opportunities while also achieving
environmental rehabilitation objectives.However, it is recognised that the
development of a linear recreational park along the Gawler River is a long
term goal which can only be achieved in ‘bite size’ chunks and by focussing
initial resources on sections of the river close to urban areas such as Gawler
and Angle Vale.
- A number of ‘environmental’ Acts require the Gawler River to be
managed in a sustainable manner. In particular, land owners must control
the spread of weeds.
- Legislation exists to formalise agreements between private land owners
and the State Government in order to establish recreational trails. Such
an agreement may be useful to provide recreational connections between
parcels of publicly owned land adjoining the river.
- There is a lack of policy consistency within the four local Council
Development Plans which cover the Gawler River.
- Sites of Aboriginal heritage significance along the Gawler River cannot be
disturbed without the approval of the State Government.
2.3
ENVIRONMENT
A number of significant studies have been undertaken into the
environmental issues facing the Gawler River. These include an EPA study
into the environmental water requirements for the Gawler River System
(including the North and South Para Rivers), a 2002 environmental
assessment by ID&A and, more recently, a number of studies prepared by
Australian Water Environments (AWE) in relation to the environmental
issues facing the Gawler River.
These studies have found that the Gawler River system has been severely
modified by the effects of land clearance, farm dams and the construction
of reservoirs. It is estimated that these modifications have resulted in
around 60% of the natural water flow of the river system being diverted
for consumptive use. Prior to European settlement, the natural flow
regime of the Gawler River would have varied from no flow to large
flooding events. Vegetation would have been dominated by red gum
(Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and river box (Eucalyptus larfiflorens) with an
open understorey of mixed shrubs and grasses.
Importantly, from an environmental and landscape perspective, the
riparian vegetation of the Gawler River remains dominated by the large
river red gums which were evident at the time of European settlement.
These trees provide an almost continuous canopy along the river while also
providing many hollows and roosting sites for birds. In contrast, the
original understorey vegetation has been severely modified as a result
of intensive grazing and largely consists of a range of introduced shrubs,
trees and grasses. These introduced weeds include olives, ash, fennel,
prickly pear, artichoke thistle, scotch thistle, castor oil plant, wild oats and
African boxthorn.
Native fish, including congolli, blue spot goby, small mouthed hardyhead
and common jollytail were found in the Gawler River. However, these
fish often have a very limited distribution and a number of water barriers
within the river channel have the potential to impact on their migration
upstream. A number of introduced species of fish are also present in the
river including European carp, goldfish, redfin perch and mosquito fish.
A notable feature of the lower Gawler River system is the Buckland Park
estuarine wetland which was artificially created by the damming of the
mouth of the river some 75 years ago. The Buckland Park wetland fills from
winter rains fed by the Gawler River and is considered to be the most
significant freshwater wetland on the Adelaide Plains. This is
demonstrated through the number and variety of migratory birds – some of
which are listed on the Japan Australia Migratory Bird Agreement – within
Buckland Park. In addition, Buckland Park provides a valuable breeding
habitat for a wide range of waterbirds. Regular inundation is required to
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
ensure that these breeding habitats remain viable.
In relation to issues of environmental flow, previous studies have found
that the maintenance of the connection between the upper freshwater
reaches to the sea and Buckland Park is of utmost importance. This
connection is necessary to allow for the migration of native fish species
and for the transfer of organic debris from the catchment to the estuary.
Annual flows with a 2-3 month duration are required to sustain Buckland
Park while flows are also required every 3 years to maintain water quality
in any permanent pools along the lower section – mainly to reduce
salinity. Flood events are necessary every 10-20 years in order to maintain
the floodplain and to provide organic inputs to the channel.
The management of environmental flows should be combined with
rehabilitation initiatives with a view to reconnecting the riparian zone with
the floodplain. This could be achieved through the consideration of major
wetlands in association with floodplain rehabilitation.
Environmental studies have shown that the ecological condition of the
river could be greatly improved through the removal of weeds combined
with revegetation initiatives and the restriction of stock access.
In addition, it has been recommended that any ecological improvement
works should initially focus on the permanent deep pools found along the
river. This is because the deep pools support a higher diversity of aquatic
and terrestrial species than surrounding landscapes.
More recently, Australian Water Environments (AWE) has mapped the
river to determine the extent of pest plant infestation, native vegetation
coverage and physical condition of the river banks. This mapping
exercise has helped to prioritise rehabilitation works along the river through
erosion control measures, pest plant eradication and protection of native
vegetation. AWE has also prepared a series of more detailed
rehabilitation action plans which focus on a number of priority areas.
These priority areas are reflected in the Open Space Strategy and have
been identified based on their attributes from a recreational point of view
as well as for their relative environmental importance.
2.4
Analysis
LANDSCAPE
The Gawler River meanders across the Northern Adelaide Plains and
discharges into the Buckland Park estuarine wetland complex. Below
Gawler, there are few natural drainage lines flowing into the river. The river
red gums, which define the river from Gawler to the coast, are a dominant
landscape feature.
The size of the channel reduces as it moves downstream. Near Buckland
Park, the channel becomes hard to define as it enters open samphire
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ANALYSIS
country. Bed sediments within the Gawler River are typically comprised
of fine sands while the sediments in the bank are comprised of fine sand,
silts, and clays. Channel widths vary from 15-45 metres with depths
ranging from 4-6 metres. The river channel is relatively active and displays
a typical meandering style. Evidence of this is shown by well-developed
floodplain features such as flood channels and former channels. Meander
wave lengths range from 40-120 metres through this zone.
Prior to European settlement, it is believed that the Gawler River is likely
to have been multi-channelled and that, during periods of high flow, the
river channels would have spilled onto the surrounding floodplain. Also, it
is likely that the lower sections of the river would have resembled a large
coastal swamp with no perceptible continuous river channel system.
Since European settlement, significant changes have occurred to the
Gawler River. Most obvious has been the significant earthworks which have
confined the river to one larger channel. In addition, the lower sections of
the Gawler River have seen the construction of large flood embankments
to protect adjacent infrastructure and land uses. These embankments,
which are often two to three metres higher than the level of the natural
floodplain, have resulted in the loss of important environmental flows between the river and the floodplain, except in very high flow events.
2.5
RECREATION
Open space plays an important role in meeting people’s recreational needs,
both structured (through clubs and schools) and unstructured. It provides
opportunity for relaxation, community interaction, health and fitness,
children’s play and social development. Open space also provides a range
of other functions including the protection of natural features and cultural
sites, the management of stormwater, the creation of recreational
linkages and the establishment of tourist destinations.
When viewed at face value, the Gawler River provides an excellent
opportunity to address recent recreational trends and to encourage greater
physical activity amongst the general community. This opportunity has
been highlighted by a number of recreation and open space strategies as
well by the inclusion of the Gawler River as part of the State Government’s
Metropolitan Open Space System (MOSS). However, there are a number of
significant issues which must be carefully addressed prior to the
realisation of a linear recreational park along the river.
Most significantly, access to the Gawler River is the single most important
issue from a recreational point of view. The fact that a significant
proportion of the River is in private ownership, together with the relative
isolation of the publicly owned sections of the River, means that it will be
difficult to establish a coordinated approach to the provision of
recreational facilities along the River.
With this in mind, it is not considered essential that a future recreational
trail follows the exact alignment of the Gawler River. Opportunities exist
for a trail to depart from the river corridor along some sections in order to
follow nearby roads. This would also allow for connections to be provided
to other attractions and facilities. It will also be important that a series of
loops or shorter recreational trails off the main river trail be created.
Excellent opportunities exist near the towns of Gawler and Angle Vale to
connect the river with existing residential areas, shopping precincts, other
recreational facilities, interesting environmental features and schools. The
trail should also, where possible, provide an alternative mode of transport
for those wishing to commute to work. Other opportunities to increase the
use of the trail should be considered including the installation of public art
such as sculptures or murals.
While it will be necessary to prepare detailed designs for any future
recreational trail, it is considered appropriate that the trail should be
designed to accommodate a range of user groups. Shared-use trails will
encourage greater usage and allow increased levels of access for a wider
section of the population, however, they must be carefully designed to
minimise the risk of conflict between users. In some cases, this can be
achieved through appropriate trail width, separation of paths, the use of
signage and the promotion of codes of practice.
A recreational trail along the length of the Gawler River is likely to be
heavily utilised and valued by a range of user groups for a range of reasons.
Sections of the trail should be designed to often cater for cyclists, walkers,
joggers, in-line skaters and the mobility impaired. Once completed, the
Gawler River trail will be of regional significance and will provide
opportunities for inter-suburban travel for commuting, recreational or
tourism purposes.
Given the range, fitness levels and number of users that are likely to be
attracted to a recreational trail along the Gawler River, safety
considerations take on greater importance. Similarly, access for a wider
range of user groups, including those with mobility impairments, is likely
to have a greater influence on the design of the trail than would be the
case in a rural area.
2.6
HERITAGE
There have been a number of studies and surveys undertaken to investigate both the Indigenous and non-Indigenous heritage significance of the
Gawler River and surrounding land.
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
Indigenous Heritage
The Northern Adelaide Plains form part of the territorial lands of the
Kaurna nation. There are 13 recoded sites of Indigenous significance
around the Lower Gawler River. These sites have been identified by
heritage surveys, the Register of Aboriginal Sites and Objects maintained
by the Division of Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation as well as locations
gleaned from historic references and South Australian Museum records.
Previous studies (such as Wood 2004) have identified the
archaeological sensitivity of the area as being high with a variety of sites
including burials, mounds, stone artefact scatters, ovens, scarred trees
and historic camps. These sites provide an important record of the Kaurna
people’s former occupation of the Lower Gawler River. They help to
describe the original inhabitant’s way of life, the food they ate, their
customs and the shelters that they built. The Gawler River appears to
have been important to the subsistence of the Kaurna people – it provided
food such as fish, yabbies and water birds while the large river red gums
provided bark for the construction of canoes which, Wood believes, may
have been used in times of flood or to navigate the waters of the Port
Gawler estuary.
A recent cultural heritage survey undertaken by Australian Cultural
Heritage Management Pty Ltd (ACHM) has identified two additional
Aboriginal sites. These sites were described as ‘Culturally Modified Trees’
and feature ‘large scars on River Red Gums which indicate that bark was
removed to create shields. The protection of these, as well as all other
sites, will be an important element of the future management of the
Gawler River.
Non-Indigenous Heritage
There are also a significant number of sites of non-Indigenous heritage
significance within the area of influence of the Gawler River. These sites
include a number of dwellings built between the late 1840’s and 1880’s.
Some of the most significant of these being the Buckland Park homestead
on Port Gawler Road and Thornborough Farm on Broster Road.
Other, non-residential, sites include the Buckland Park Lake, the former
Port Gawler West School, the crossing of the River at Bakers Road and
the former road to the Gawler estuary. These sites, along with the former
dwellings, paint a picture of the life of the early settlers. As is the case
today, the land was used primarily for farming. The early settlers also faced
similar problems as today’s farmers in terms of the regular flooding of the
Gawler River. The flooding led to transportation problems which resulted
in the construction of a wharf at the Gawler estuary which, although not
realised, was intended to form the basis of a larger port with associated
settlement.
Analysis
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ANALYSIS
2.7
FLOODING
The Gawler River has had a long history of flooding which has had a
significant financial impact on nearby farming and residential properties.
The most recent severe flood occurred in 2005 where flood waters spilled
over the banks of the river and spread north and south along the floodplain.
In February 2008, the Gawler River Flood Plain Management Authority
received a series of flood inundation maps accompanied by a technical
report prepared by Australian Water Environments (AWE). This study
found that, despite the construction of the new Bruce Eastick North Para
Flood Mitigation Dam, parts of the lower Gawler River floodplain will still
be at risk of flooding. The mapping has identified that approximately
3,850 properties in the Gawler, Light, Mallala and Playford Councils may
be at risk from a 1 in 100 year flood.
More specifically, the mapping indicates that the majority of flow from
a 1 in 100 year event will break out upstream of Angle Vale near Wingate
Road and will head in a north-west direction along Salt Creek towards Two
Wells. The mapping also predicts a small breakout near Angle Vale which
may have some impact on the township.
Importantly, while the mapping indicates that the extent of a 1 in 100 year
flood event will be large, the majority of the area is rated as being of low to
moderate flood hazard due to shallow depths and low velocities resulting
from the broad, flat floodplain. The high and extreme flood hazard areas
are confined to parts of Gawler, the main river channel, the main breakout
to the north-west near Wingate Road and near the outlets of the Gawler
River and Thompson Creek.
The Gawler, Playford and Mallala Councils are currently preparing a Flood
Management Development Plan Amendment (DPA) which will incorporate
the flood maps within their Development Plans and introduce policies to
control development on the flood plain.
2.8
commissioned a planning study which seeks to investigate the feasibility
of constructing a shared-use trail along the Gawler River, between
Wingate Road and the Gawler town centre.
2.9
POPULATION GROWTH
While a significant proportion of the Gawler River flows through farming
land, the northern region of Adelaide is facing substantial urban growth
over the next 10 to 20 years. In particular, it is likely that the town of
Gawler’s population will increase by around 19,000 people (up from the
current 20,000) over the next twenty years.
Additional growth near the Gawler River is likely to occur at Angle Vale
where the population is forecast to grow by 777 people between 2006 and
2016. In addition, the areas around Munno Para and Virginia are likely to
experience considerable growth. This is reflected in the growth forecasts
for the City of Playford which anticipate an additional 17,075 people across
the Council area by the year 2016.
Substantial population growth is also possible at Buckland Park near
Virginia. The proposed ‘Country Township’ at Buckland Park, which is being
assessed under the Major Development process, involves the construction
of a township to house approximately 15,000 people on a 1,000 hectare
site at Buckland Park between Virginia and Port Gawler. The proposal also
includes a town centre and associated community and recreation facilities.
Importantly, the Buckland Park proposal includes flood mitigation works
and the provision of a recreational trail along the Gawler River.
As described above, the population of the northern region of Adelaide is
likely to grow substantially over the next twenty years. This growth has
significant ramifications for the Gawler River from both an
environmental and recreational point of view. It is likely that additional
growth will place pressure on the river from an environmental perspective
while also increasing the potential demand for the provision of a
recreational trail along the length of the river.
NORTHERN EXPRESSWAY
The Northern Expressway will provide a new link between the Sturt
Highway at Gawler and Port Wakefield Road. It will be a 23 kilometre
two-way expressway which is designed to improve the transport of freight
coming from the Barossa Valley and the Riverland.
Analysis
The Northern Expressway will cross the Gawler River near Wingate Road.
It is understood that the Department of Transport, Energy and
Infrastructure (DTEI) has prepared a number of studies in relation to the
environmental, cultural and recreational opportunities and constraints
associated with the Gawler River crossing. In particular, DTEI has
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
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ANALYSIS
LEGEND
Gawler River
Alignment
Map Boundary
GAWLER TOWNSHIP
MAP D
MAP C
MAP B
ANGLE VALE
VIRGINIA
PORT GAWLER
MAP A
Key Map
NOT TO SCALE
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
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ANALYSIS
LEGEND
Activity Node
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
4.
Existing trail
PORT
GAWLER
OFF ROAD
HIRE PARK
River Alignment
GAWLER RIVER
PORT GAWLER
Council Boundary
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
Public Land
1.Interpretive signs at Port Gawler
2.Salt marshes, Port Gawler
MOSS
POR
T GA
WLE
R
ROA
D
BUCKLAND PARK
‘COUNTRY
TOWNSHIP
PROPOSAL’
PORT GAWLER
CONSERVATION PARK
DOLPHIN
SANCTUARY
3.
OE
LEG
3.Mouth of Gawler River
BUCKLAND PARK
WETLAND
1.
ST VINCENTS
GULF
D
ROA
2.
GAWLER RIVER
Interpretive display
and shelter
SALT CRYSTALLIZATION FIELDS
4.Gates to Salt Fields
CITY OF PLAYFORD
0
1km
2km
3km
4km
Issues & Opportunities
Scale
D
C
A
B
- New interpretive shelter at end of Port Gawler Road showing
signs of vandalism
- Activity node provides more opportunities for recreation and
tourism. eg: Bird hides, boardwalks, formalised small craft access
ramp (kayak)
- Possible tours of Buckland Park Wetland
- Access to Buckland Park Wetland involves crossing private land
- There is evidence of rubbish and vandalism at Port Gawler
- The Buckland Park ‘Country Township’ Major Project may have
environmental implications associated with Gawler River and
existing vegetation. It also provides an opportunity to establish a
linear park with recreational facilities.
Analysis Map A
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
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ANALYSIS
LEGEND
Activity Node
Carpark
Thornborough Estate Historic Homestead
Existing Trail
LD
FIE
AKE
TW
POR
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
1.Historic Homestead, Thornborough Estate
JOHNS ROAD
TWO WELLS
S
HOR
D
ROA
ND
KLA
ELLIS ROAD
JE
GAWLER RIVER
8.
9.
VIRGINIA
STANTON
ROAD
D
FIEL
AKE
TW
POR
R
STE
OE
LEG
1km
Council Boundary
JOHNS
6.
GAWLER RIVER
3.Level marker, Virginia Gauging Station
4.Vineyards adjacent floodway
5.Bakers Road Wetland
6.Erosion control required.
CITY OF PLAYFORD
D
ROA
2km
3km
4km
Issues & Opportunities
D
C
B
Public Land
BAKERS ROAD
WETLAND
5.
Scale
A
River Alignment
Virginia Gauging
Station
BUCKLAND PARK
‘COUNTRY TOWNSHIP
PROPOSAL’
0
2.Proposed Floodway
D
ROA
D
ROA
M
ENTS
CLEM
D
A
O
R
OLD
BRO
D
ROA
OAD
DR
IEL
ND
KLA
BUC
EK
CRE
3.
F
AKE
TW
POR
PORT GAWLER
2.
1.
BAKERS ROAD
OAD
SR
THO
BAKERS FORD
7.
CROSSING
4.
IE
FFR
N
PSO
LEWISTON
JOHNS ROAD
RT
COU
BAKERS ROAD
D
ROA
BUC
OE
ESH
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
- Potential to include trail and interpretation.
- Bakers Ford Crossing subject to regular flood inundation
- Temporary levee installed during flood events
- Rail line holds back flood flows on eastern bank. Flows regulated through
culverts under the rail line.
- Bakers Road wetland provides a good example of improving
environmental condition of water quality along the river.
- Additional funding required to complete terrestrial and aquatic planting
- Possible location for interpretive trail and recreation
infrastructure, i.e. shelter
- Car park currently used by council to dump spoil
- The Buckland Park ‘Country Township’ will require additional flood
mitigation works.
- There are a number of Aboriginal Heritage sites close to Gawler River.
7.Car park currently used by Council to stockpile spoil
Analysis Map B
8.Dirt track adjacent Railway Line
9.Floodway culverts under Railway Line
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg 10
Job no. 07043
ANALYSIS
LEGEND
Activity Node
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
WILKINSON ROAD
LIGHT REGIONAL
COUNCIL
Existing trail
1.Historic Bridge
CROWN LAND UNDER
LEASEHOLD
2km
HILLIER RO
AD
PRE
MOSS
3.Carpark, AM Dawkins Memorial Park
4.Dilapidated park infrastructure, AM
Dawkins Park
5.Sharefarmers land, Angle Vale
6.Ford Crossing at Sloans Sands
7.Ford Crossing
8.Incised river channel
ED N
ORT
HER
N EX
ANGLE VALE
3km
4km
Scale
VIGARA WINERY
PRO
POS
CITY OF PLAYFORD
1km
Extractive Industry
8.
RIVERBANKS ROAD
RESTORED
9. METHODIST CHURCH
& CEMETERY
JENKINS ROAD
R ROAD
PENFIELD GARDENS
5.
1.-4.
Public Land
HEASLIP ROAD
0
JOHNS ROAD
VIRGINIA
CARCLEW ROAD
McGEE ROAD
DEEP POOLS
ATTRACTIVE
SITE
HAYMAN ROAD
WINNIFRED ROAD
GAWLER RIVER
McGEE ROAD
CHIVELL ROAD
6.
RUIN
GAWLER RIVER
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
ROBERTS ROAD
PEDERICK ROAD
JOHNS ROAD
MARCH CLOSE
HEASLIP ROAD
BOUNDARY ROAD
LEWISTON
7.
River Alignment
Council Boundary
SPENCE
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
ANGLE VALE
2.AM Dawkins Memorial Park
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
SSW
AY
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
Issues & Opportunities
D
C
A
- AM Dawkins Memorial Park appears to have been upgraded some
20-30 years ago. The park is severely overgrown with weeds and park
infrastructure is dilapidated.
- Substantial portion of public land (Crown Land) under lease hold to
sharefarmers, adjacent to Gawler River
- Planning SA are discussing a possible land swap with land owners to
establish a linear reserve along the river
- Potential to develop land as river reserve in proximity to township of
Angle Vale.
-Potential to create trail loop with link to Angle Vale and Schools etc.
-Potential to provide interpretive signage for former Methodist Church
and Cemetery
Analysis Map C
9. Former Methodist Church
B
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg 11
Job no. 07043
ANALYSIS
LEGEND
Activity Node
Existing Trail
River Alignment
LIGHT
REGIONAL
COUNCIL
LIGHT REGIONAL COUNCIL
Council Boundary
E
AD
Public Land
IDE
LA
RA
UR
-B
D
ROA
OP
D
ROA
CK
JA
CO
DR
ROAD
D
FOR
CLIF
2.
E
IV
ER
MOSS
GAWLER
SOUTH
1. Wingate Road Ford - Difficult access for
pedestrian and cyclists
2. Pearsons Road - Public access to the
River is restricted
2. Rubbish in River corridor impedes flow
3. Gawler River Pony Club
4. Exotic Vegetation blocks viewing points
4. Stormwater drain next to Clifford Rd
EVANSTON
ETON
3. 4.
PONY
CLUB
BRIDGE
WINCKEL BRIDGE
RYDE STREET
BRER
OAD
ER R
HIGGINS ROAD
ED
OS
OP
PR
1.
GAWLER RIVER
TROTTING
TRACK
GAW
LER B
YPAS
S
ELL
W
TWO
DIG
ROE
RN
E
RTH
NO
GAWLER
WEST
SWAY
AD
S RO
PRINCES PARK OVAL
DOG TRACK
OVAL
LAWRE
NCE AV
ENUE
EXPRES
BUCHFELDE
OVERPASS
AY
ILW
RA
LAW
ITE
WH
GLIDER STRIP
GAWLER WEST
TROTTING TRACK
ROAD CLOSURES
WINGATE ROAD
TWO WEL
LS ROAD
Potential Future Urban
Growth Area
TOWN OF
GAWLER
LER
GAW
ROAD
ROAD
2km
REED
SONS
1km
PEAR
0
ROAD CLOSURES
ROAD
CITY OF
PLAYFORD
HILLIER
WINGATE
HILLIER RO
AD
ASS
BYP
WINZOR RO
AD
3km
4km
Scale
Issues & Opportunities
D
C
A
B
- Park located at the confluence of North Para and South Para Rivers
has been recently redeveloped.
- Possible trail extension west along Lower Gawler River terminating
at Winckel Bridge, to form loop trail in Gawler South.
- Possible revegetation opportunities for this section of River.
- Potential growth of Gawler to the east alongside the Gawler River
needs to be Co-ordinated to achieve environmental improvements
and the provision of recreational facilities.
- Future urban growth needs to avoid flood prone areas.
- Access to the River is restricted by ‘Private Property’ signs, even on
Public Land
- Remove exotic vegetation
- Establish viewing points along Pearsons Road
- Rubbish in River is impeding flow.
Analysis Map D
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg 12
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
3.
ACTION PLAN
3.1
INTRODUCTION
Actions
Partnerships
Priority
1.1 Develop a program to implement the erosion control, weed removal and
revegetation recommendations prepared by Australian Water Environments in
relation to the identified Priority Areas.
NRMB
Councils
GRFMA
High
1.2 Develop a program to transfer land along the Gawler River to public ownership. Such a
program should target land adjacent to existing publicly owned land in order to establish a
continuous linear reserve. Ensure that all applications for the division of land adjoining the
river provide a public reserve of at least 50m along the river.
DPLG
Councils
High
1.3 Undertake the necessary revegetation and erosion control measures to complete the
Baker Road Wetland. Establish an ongoing maintenance regime for the
wetland and provide appropriate facilities to allow public access for unstructured recreational
activities.
NRMB
Councils
1.4 Undertake an audit of the stormwater pipes and drains which discharge into the Gawler
River in order to determine the impact of individual outlets. Once the audit has been completed, introduce measures to reduce pollution and erosion.
NRMB
Councils
GRFMA
High
NRMB
Councils
Medium
Underpinning the “vision” for the Gawler River are a set of Strategic Directions, which function as a series of
management guidelines. The Strategic Directions are, in turn, supported by a set of detailed actions. Many of the
recommended actions can be linked to more than one of the Strategic Directions, but they have been located under
what is considered to be the most appropriate direction.
1.5 Develop a program to assist adjoining land owners to better manage their
properties in order to reduce the spread of weeds, protect native flora and fauna and minimise the entry of pollutants into the river.
1.6 Undertake regular training of Council outdoor staff to ensure that their
activities do not impact on existing native vegetation and regeneration sites.
Councils
NRMB
Medium
The Strategic Directions and Actions are contained in the tables on the following pages. Many of the Actions are
also illustrated on the maps located at the end of this chapter.
1.7 Develop partnership programs with local schools and other community groups to assist
with environmental rehabilitation works.
NRMB
Councils
Medium
1. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENT
1.8 Develop a feral animal control program for the Gawler River.
NRMB
Councils
Medium
1.9 Prepare a “Bushfire Minimisation Plan” for the Gawler River considering issues such as:
- Revegetation initiatives;
- Maintenance regimes to reduce fuel loads;
- Appropriate fire breaks and other management techniques between the river
corridor and adjacent properties; and
- The provision of appropriate access for fire fighting vehicles.
Councils
CFS
Medium
This section of the Open Space Strategy provides a series of Strategic Directions followed by specific actions which
have been drafted to improve the management of the Gawler River. The Action Plan establishes a framework which
can be used by both State and Local Governments to coordinate their resources and efforts to achieve
environmental and recreational benefits for the Gawler River and surrounding areas.
3.2
VISION
The establishment of a “vision” for the future of the Gawler River is a critical initial step in effectively managing this
important asset. In this way, the strategic directions and actions that follow can be continually measured against
the broader vision to ensure that the implementation process remains focussed.
It is suggested that the vision for the Gawler River should be as follows:
The Gawler River will be an attractive and functional regional recreational and environmental asset where:
- Resources are managed efficiently;
- Recreational access along the river is maximised; and
- The river and riparian land is rehabilitated.
3.3
STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS
Strategic Directions
Rehabilitate areas of environmental sensitivity by focussing resources on designated priority areas. Protect
existing native vegetation and encourage natural regeneration through weed removal and revegetation.
Improve water quality within the Gawler River by addressing stormwater runoff and erosion issues.
Medium
Action Plan
Establish partnerships across State and Local Government as well as community groups to assist in the
environmental rehabilitation of the Gawler River.
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg 13
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
1.10 Introduce consistent planning policy across the Gawler, Light, Playford and
Mallala Development Plans in relation to the Gawler River. Planning policy should
reflect the Strategic Directions of this Open Space Strategy and, in particular,
should:
- Establish a common Metropolitan Open Space System (MOSS) zone along the
river.
- Anticipate the construction of a shared-use recreational trail and associated
facilities along the Gawler River.
- Anticipate a range of potential environmental initiatives such as the
creation of wetlands.
- Establish consistent policies and maps in relation to flood management.
- Provide a minimum setback of at least 50m from the river for residential or
commercial development.
Create a policy framework to guide the installation of recreational facilities such as
boardwalks and interpretive signs.
- Flag the likely presence of Aboriginal Heritage Sites near the Gawler River.
Councils
DPLG
High
Actions
Partnerships
Priority
2.1 Prepare detailed designs for a shared-use recreational trail for walkers,
cyclists and horses along the length of the Gawler River. Where possible, the trail should follow
the alignment of the river. However, a deviation away from the river may be necessary where
land ownership or other access issues are encountered.
Councils
ORS
DPLG
NRMB
High
Establish a continuous shared-use recreational trail along the length of the Gawler River which caters for walkers, cyclists and
horse riders.
The trail should be designed to complement the existing ‘natural’ setting and should:
- Be surfaced in bitumen to provide an even and durable pathway which can be easily repaired.
- Be a minimum of 3m in width in order to minimise the chance of conflict
between users. Line marking should also be considered to separate users
travelling in opposite directions.
- Consider the safety of users by locating the trail away from steeply sloping banks, ensuring
clear views are available and providing access for emergency vehicles.
- Consider the installation of lights along some sections of the trail, especially in close proximity to areas which people congregate.
- Prepare a signage strategy to clearly mark the trail, inform users of their
responsibilities and identify interpretation opportunities.
- Ensure that any interface points with traffic are designed to minimise the chance of conflicts.
- Consider the location, size and design of facilities associated with the trail such as parking
areas, seating placed at regular intervals, toilets and picnic areas.
- Establish an ongoing maintenance regime. This should include the regular slashing and removal of weeds, revegetation initiatives and the monitoring of water quality.
Where possible, provide equity of access for a range of recreational users, including those with mobility
impairments, through the provision of adequate infrastructure.
2.2 Commence negotiations with land owners and developers to ensure that recreational link- Councils
ages are established between new residential areas and the Gawler River.
DPLG
High
Provide facilities such as bins, toilets, playgrounds and picnic areas in locations based on recreational usage.
2.3 Develop a number of ‘trail heads’ at Gawler, Angle Vale and Port Gawler to provide access Councils
to the recreational trail. These trail heads should provide car parking spaces, directional and DPLG
ORS
interpretive signage and facilities such as a toilet, bins, playground and picnic area.
Medium
2.4 Develop a suite of furniture to be installed along the Gawler River.
Councils
Furniture should be of hard wearing and low maintenance materials such as timber, steel or DPLG
recycled plastic. Furniture designs should be simple and
ORS
complementary to the semi-natural setting of the Gawler River.
Medium
2.5 Install dog waste dispensers/bins at the main entrances and at regular sites along the Councils
trail.
Medium
Councils
SATC
Medium
2. RECREATIONAL USAGE
Strategic Directions
Provide recreational links to surrounding areas including Gawler, Angle Vale and the proposed Buckland Park
development.
2.6 Encourage greater public visitation to Buckland Park Wetland by
improving access through the salt fields, promoting guided tours and
preparing a feasibility study into the development of a Visitor
Information Centre.
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
Action Plan
May 2009
Pg 14
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
4. PUBLICITY, PROMOTION and EDUCATION
2.7 Develop a water based recreational trail for canoes and kayaks linking Port Gawler and Saint Council
Kilda.
ORS
Medium
2.8 Develop ‘farm-gate’ produce tourism opportunities in association with the recreational Council
trail.
SATC
Medium
Strategic Directions
2.9 Participate in the detailed design and construction of the Northern Expressway crossing of Council
the Gawler River to ensure that recreational and environmental benefits are achieved for the DPLG
river.
GRFMA
High
Promote the attractions and facilities within the Gawler River in accordance with its status as a regional environmental and
recreational asset.
Use signage along the Gawler River and from surrounding roads to provide clear directions for users as well as interpretive information regarding the history of the area and environmental values.
3. EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT
Strategic Directions
Acknowledging the limited resources that are available for open space management, encourage the assistance of a range of
community groups and local residents in supporting the management of the Gawler River.
Actions
Partnerships
Priority
4.1 Prepare an information pamphlet with associated map detailing the environmental,
historical, recreational and cultural attractions of the Gawler River.
Councils
NRMB
Medium
4.2 Include regular articles within local newspapers and Council websites regarding the
implementation of this Open Space Strategy.
Councils
NRMB
Medium
4.3 Seek the cooperation of interested community groups or organisations to conduct tours Councils
highlighting historical, cultural and environmental aspects of the Gawler River.
NRMB
Medium
4.4 Install consistent signage at all entrances to the Gawler River identifying:
- Key features;
- Recreational facilities;
- Appropriate recreational activities; and
- Code of conduct
Councils
NRMB
Medium
4.5 Install directional signage and distance markers adjacent to trails within the Gawler River.
Councils
Medium
4.6 Install major directional signs along nearby arterial roads identifying the location of the Councils
Gawler River and recreational trail.
Medium
4.7 Liaise with Kaurna representatives identified by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Councils
Reconciliation to develop opportunities for Aboriginal cultural heritage to be recognised and NRMB
interpreted in appropriate ways.
Medium
Base environmental rehabilitation works and maintenance regimes on the identified Priority Areas.
Seek appropriate levels of funding from a range of sources to implement the recommendations of the Open Space Strategy.
Actions
Partnerships Priority
3.1 Establish a Gawler River Working Group comprised of representatives of Local Government Councils
and relevant State Government Departments. The role of the Working Group will be to oversee NRMB
the implementation of the Open Space Strategy, coordinate management and maintenance DPLG
initiatives along the Gawler River and secure an appropriate level of funding.
High
Councils
3.2 Establish an annual forum of stakeholders and interested individuals to provide an
update on the implementation of the Open Space Strategy and to provide opportunities to get NRMB
involved.
High
3.3 Prepare a Funding Strategy based on the recommended priorities contained in this Open Councils
Space Strategy.
High
Councils
3.4 Before proceeding with any significant development works within the Gawler River
Corridor, discuss the nature and scale of the works with the Department for Aboriginal Affairs NRMB
and Reconciliation in order to determine any responsibilities under the provisions of the
Aboriginal Heritage Act.
Medium
Action Plan
ACRONYMS
GRFMA: Gawler River Floodplain Management Authority
NRMB: Adelaide & Mt Lofty Ranges NRM Board
ORS: Office for Recreation and Sport
DPLG: Department of Planning and Local Goverment
CFS: Country Fire Service
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May 2009
Pg 15
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Activity Node
Potential Activity Node
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
PORT
GAWLER
OFF ROAD
HIRE PARK
PROPOSED
SHARED-USE
RECREATIONAL
TRAIL
PORT GAWLER
Existing Trail
GAWLER RIVER
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
Potential Trail
River Alignment
Council Boundary
POR
T GA
WLE
R
ROA
D
4.
PORT GAWLER
CONSERVATION PARK
DOLPHIN
SANCTUARY
3.
OE
LEG
BUCKLAND PARK
WETLAND
1.
ST VINCENTS
GULF
D
ROA
2.
GAWLER RIVER
Interpretive display
and shelter
SALT CRYSTALLIZATION FIELDS
CITY OF PLAYFORD
0
1km
2km
3km
4km
Recommended Actions
Scale
D
C
A
B
- Develop a shared-use recreational trail along the Gawler River
from the Buckland Park ‘Country Township’ through the Buckland
Park Wetland and along Port Gawler River,
- Negotiate Public access through salt fields to Buckland Park
Wetland,
- Encourage tours of Buckland Park Wetland and the Mangrove
area of Gawler River mouth,
- Undertake a feasibility study into the establishment of a Visitor
Information Centre similar to the Saint Kilda Mangrove Trail,
- Consider the establishment of a Water based recreational trail
for canoes and kayaks linking Saint Kilda and Port Gawler.
Recommended
Actions Map A
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 16
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Activity Node
Carpark
Thornborough Estate Historic Homestead
Potential Activity Node
LD
FIE
AKE
TW
POR
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
D
ROA
ND
KLA
ELLIS ROAD
BAKERS FORD
CROSSING
GAWLER RIVER
OLD
VIRGINIA
STANTON
ROAD
D
FIEL
AKE
TW
POR
River Alignment
Council Boundary
GAWLER RIVER
Virginia Gauging
Station
OE
LEG
1km
JOHNS
BAKERS ROAD
WETLAND
ROBINSON ROAD
BUCKLAND PARK
‘COUNTRY TOWNSHIP
PROPOSAL’
0
Potential Trail
D
ROA
D
ROA
M
THO
R
STE
EK
CRE
BRO
D
ROA
OAD
DR
IEL
ND
KLA
BUC
N
PSO
CLEM
ROAD
F
AKE
TW
POR
PORT GAWLER
ENTS
BAKERS ROAD
OAD
SR
RIE
JEFF
LEWISTON
BAKERS ROAD
BUC
HO
SES
HOR
SEE PRIORITY AREA 1
JOHNS ROAD
TWO WELLS
URT
E CO
JOHNS ROAD
D
ROA
Existing Trail
CITY OF PLAYFORD
D
ROA
2km
3km
4km
Scale
Recommended Actions
- Develop a shared-use recreational trail along the Gawler River from
Buckland Park ‘Country Township’ to Old Port Wakefield Road,
- Ensure that the Buckland Park ‘Country Township’ proposal establishes
a 50m-100m wide linear reserve along Gawler River.
D
Recommended
actions Map B
C
A
B
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 17
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Activity Node
Potential Activity Node
SEE PRIORITY AREA 2
WILKINSON ROAD
LIGHT REGIONAL
COUNCIL
Existing Trail
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
SPENCE
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
R ROAD
CROWN LAND UNDER
LEASEHOLD
Council Boundary
8.
HILLIER RO
AD
RIVERBANKS ROAD
SSW
AY
N EX
ANGLE VALE
HER
McGEE ROAD
JOHNS ROAD
VIRGINIA
HAYMAN ROAD
PENFIELD GARDENS
GAWLER RIVER
JENKINS ROAD
7.
5.
1.-4.
River Alignment
HEASLIP ROAD
McGEE ROAD
CHIVELL ROAD
6.
GAWLER RIVER
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
ROBERTS ROAD
PEDERICK ROAD
JOHNS ROAD
MARCH CLOSE
HEASLIP ROAD
BOUNDARY ROAD
LEWISTON
ANGLE VALE
Potential Trail
PRE
DISTRICT COUNCIL
OF MALLALA
Site of Environmental
or Cultural Significance
PRO
POS
ED N
ORT
CITY OF PLAYFORD
0
1km
2km
3km
4km
Scale
Recommended Actions
- Develop a shared-use recreational trial along portions of the Gawler
River and along ‘back ‘ roads where access to the river is difficult,
- Provide a number of access points where the Public can view the river.
Provide basic facilities at these points such as seats and interpretive
signage,
- Develop farm produce tourism opportunities in association with the
shared-use recreational trail.
D
Recommended
Actions Map C
C
A
B
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 18
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Activity Node
Existing Trail
LIGHT
REGIONAL
COUNCIL
LIGHT REGIONAL COUNCIL
Potential Trail
River Alignment
E
AD
Council Boundary
IDE
LA
RA
UR
-B
SEE PRIORITY AREA 4
AY
ILW
RA
LAW
ITE
WH
D
ROA
GLIDER STRIP
GAWLER WEST
TROTTING TRACK
PRINCES PARK OVAL
DOG TRACK
OVAL
LAWRE
NCE AV
ENUE
GAW
LER B
YPAS
S
ROAD
E
EVANSTON
ETON
CK
JA
O
CO
DR
TOWN OF
GAWLER
2km
LER
GAW
ONS R
OAD
ASS
BYP
HILLIER
ROAD CLOSURES
1km
R
PE
GAWLER
SOUTH
3. 4.
PEARS
WINGATE
RD
HILLIER RO
AD
0
D
ROA
GAWLER RIVER
WINZOR RO
AD 2.
CITY OF
PLAYFORD
D
FOR
BRIDGE
WINCKEL BRIDGE
RYDE STREET
IV
CLIF
HIGGINS ROAD
ED
OS
OP
PR
1.
TROTTING
TRACK
OAD
ER R
SEE PRIORITY AREA 3
1.
AD
S RO
ELL
W
TWO
DIG
ROE
RN
BRER
WINGATE ROAD
BUCHFELDE
THE
NOR
GAWLER
WEST
EX
ROAD CLOSURES
OVERPASS
TWO WEL
LS ROAD
AY
PRESSW
3km
4km
Scale
Recommended Actions
D
- In association with Future Urban Growth, continue to establish a
linear reserve of 50-100mm along Gawler River,
- improve access to the River by establishing a number of viewing
points with associated facilities and signage,
- Widen the Wingate Road Ford to improve Pedestrian and Cyclists
access,
- Where recreational access along the River is not possible, establish
a shared-use trail along Secondary Roads,
- Remove rubbish in and alongside the River and develop initiatives
to discourage offenders.
Recommended
Actions Map D
C
A
B
Key Plan
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 19
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Gawler River
Alignment
issue
- Access difficult
Action
- move entrance
- improve sightlines
-reduce speed limit
-improve signage
Potential Trail
4.
1.
BAKERS FORD CROSSING
1. Wetland
2.
Revegetation
3.
Recreational Access
Pedestrian/bicycle
4.
Interpretation
5.
Improve Parking
Facilities
6.
Traffic Calming and Treatment of Ford
(Bakers Road Ford)
2.
5.
LEWISTON
6.
BAKERS ROAD
LOAM PIT
3.
GAWLER RIVER
VIRGINIA
Scale
0
0.25
Priority Area 1
- Bakers Road
Wetland
0.5km
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 20
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Gawler River
Alignment
Improve access to River.
Remove weeds and barriers.
Install seats and tables
Negotiate Public access for eventual walk,
bike and trail.
Undertake weed removal and revegatation
Public Land
Potential Trail
WILKINSON ROAD
DISTRICT
COUNCIL OF
MALLALA
LIGHT REGIONAL
COUNCIL
1. Chivell Road - Improve Public access to
River and install facilities
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
SPENCE
R
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
ROAD
4.
2. Harris Road - Establish a shared-use
trail on secondary roads
Finalise land transfer to achieve 100m
publicly accessible linear reserve
RIVERBANKS ROAD
CROWN LAND UNDER
LEASEHOLD
GAWLER RIVER
Improve access to River
(currently described as Private Road)
5. HILLIER ROAD
HEASLIP ROAD
BOUNDARY ROAD
GAWLER RIVER ROAD
ANGLE VALE
Improve access to River
(currently described as Private Road)
1.
SWA
Y
RES
EXP
4. Broster Road - Negotiate Public access
to the River
HER
N
BUBNER ROAD
Priority Area 2 Angle Vale
POS
ED N
ANGLE VALE
3.
TRINITY
COLLEGE
GAWLER
RIVER
CAMPUS
ORT
2.
BROSTER ROAD
HARRIS ROAD
HEASLIP ROAD
CHIVELL ROAD
JENKINS ROAD
3. Trinity College - Involve Students in
environmental restoration walks
Promote bike, walk and
horse access on existing
‘back’ roads
Scale 0
1km
PRO
VIGARA WINERY
A.M. Dawkins Park:
- Improve maintenence regime
- Revegetate with native species
- Remove weeds
- Replace interpretive signs
- Involve local school in management
2km
3km
4km
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
5. Riverbanks Road - Negotiate Public
access to the River
May2009
Pg 21
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Gawler River
Alignment
The detailed design of the Northern Expressway
Gawler River Crossing, which is being progressed by
the Department of transport, Energy and Infrasture,
will further inform open space development along the
Gawler River and will complement this open space
strategy.
TWO WELL
S ROAD
Potential Trail
1. Bridge
2.
Recreational Trail Along River
3.
Rehabilitation Of River
EN
NM
LIG
ATE R
OAD
5. Winzor Road - develop a shared-use trail
where access to the River is not possible
FU
TU
RE
NO
RT
H
ER
N
EX
PR
ES
SW
AY
A
WING
T
4. Wingate Road Ford - Widen to improve
pedestrian and cyclist access
4.
3.
1.
GAWLER RIVER
2.
HILLIER
5. WINZOR R
OAD
Scale
0
0.25
0.5
0.75
Priority Area
3 - Northern
Expressway Crossing
1km
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 22
Job no. 07043
ACTION PLAN
LEGEND
Gawler River
Alignment
Potential Trail
Provide access to river
Future Residential
Development
EL
AD
1.
EAID
BU
RR
AR
Purchase flood
prone land and
revegetate
Y
WA
AIL
1. Beasley Avenue - Provide access to the River
2. Two Wells Road - Purchase low-lying land
and revegetate
3. Penrith Avenue - Provide interpretive
opportunities
4. Para Para Court - Remove fence and
continue trail along the River
6. Remove Weir
5. Continue existing trail west to
Para Para Court
Remove weir
Restrict development
in low-lying areas and
revegetate
Improve access to the River
E
4.
TL
PA
Continue existing trail
through to Para Para Court
5.
BEADNALL
TCE
AR
GEN
A
PAR
T
OUR
RA C
AN
PATE
RN
OSTE
R RO
AD
GAWLER RIVER
BRIGALD STREET
BYPA
S
S
PENRITH AVENUE
GAW
LER
GAWLER WEST
EL
LS
RO
AD
3.
2.
GOSFORD STREET
BRITTON STREET
W
UE
VEN
HA
RIT
PEN
TW
O
Provide interpretive signage for
historic mansion
Priority Area 4 Gawler
GAWLER RIVER
WINCKEL BRIDGE
RYDE STREET
BARNET
Purchase low-lying land and revegetate
Scale
0
0.25
0.5
0.75
1km
GAWLER RIVER OPEN SPACE STRATEGY
May2009
Pg 23
Job no. 07043