Alexandrina Council has moved a step closer to starting construction works on the Goolwa Wharf Precinct Revitalisation Project, but may be scaled back.

This week will see it begin the tender process to upgrade the Goolwa Wharf Precinct following its March decision to progress a Master Plan approach. 

Its project team is looking for experienced construction contractors who have a good track record in this type of development and who demonstrate an understanding of the community and its needs. 

The tender process for the project is now open via the Tender SA website.

The council says transformation of the Precinct will turn it into a vibrant place of cultural and environmental significance; activated with events, arts open space to encourage locals and tourists to stay and explore the region further. 

“The vision for the Goolwa Wharf Precinct is a place to experience a vibrant riverfront township enriched with culture and history.”

The council is still seeking state government funding of $1.99 million and federal government funding of $3.98 million to be able to deliver the entire project.

There has been community concern raised about both the nature and the cost of the project, with residents seeking national heritage listing for the whole precinct.

Alexandrina Mayor Keith Parkes told ABC radio that the council's original 2012 proposal to revitalise the wharf had been costed at $7.5 million and approved by the community after consultation.

A more ambitious revised proposal, costed at $18m, had attracted community backlash and needed to be reconsidered.

At its meeting on Monday 20 June the council will consider scaling back the size and cost of the redevelopment to cover just the necessary repairs and upgrades to the state-heritage listed buildings and not proceed with further redevelopment.

Following the tender process and successful contractor announcement the council anticipates that construction work will start in September 2022 and be completed in late 2023. 

The South Australian Wooden Boat Festival is scheduled for April 2023. 

For further information visit the Goolwa Wharf Precinct revitalisation project page on the Alexandrina Council website. 

South Australian council elections take place every four years and are due in November 2022.