The South Australian Government’s urban development agency – Renewal SA – invited the public to participate in shaping the proposed Tapangka on Franklin development. Locals explored preliminary designs and offered their feedback during the engagement sessions on 24 August and 27 August 2024.
Situated at Adelaide’s CBD, Tapangka on Franklin will repurpose the former Adelaide Bus Station site on Franklin Street. The scheme is expected to home 1,000 residents and feature a 35% affordable housing component.
It has been designed to be a landmark destination in Adelaide, offering a blend of residential, commercial and retail spaces.
Plans include the construction of mixed-use towers and a signature building that will house over 200 hotel rooms, a major Build to Rent development, market housing for sale and rental, and commercial and retail tenancies.
The development will feature a plaza and landscaped open spaces, with $1.2m allocated to upgrading public areas around Bowen Street and the former Hampshire Hotel.
“The importance of bringing in a major development cannot be overstated. Tapangka on Franklin will transform what has been an underutilised site into a vibrant inner-city destination and sought-after residential community.
“It will offer long and short-term housing options and contemporary commercial, civic, and retail spaces while championing carbon neutrality and focusing on affordable housing.”
Chris Menz, Chief Executive, Renewal SA
For sustainability, Renewal SA at Tapangka on Franklin is set on reducing carbon emissions, promoting energy efficiency, and integrating renewable energy sources. The design encourages the use of sustainable transport options, such as walking, cycling and public transport.
Cultural recognition is also a key element of the mixed-use scheme. The name ‘Tapangka’ comes from the Kaurna language, reflecting the site’s heritage and connection to Kaurna Yarta (Kaurna Country). First Nations culture will be honoured throughout the development, from its initial planning stages to its ongoing operation.
The construction of Tapangka on Franklin is expected to start in 2026, following the selection of development partners through a national search.
Jobs will be created both during and post-construction, with Renewal SA seeking to collaborate with private and not-for-profit sectors, alongside various government levels and the local community.
