Issue

Content classified as an issue is typically about a key issue of concern to the SPRA. Some examples of issues are Bell's Plumber's Shop, Linde Reserve, Avenues Shopping Centre.

Influence of Linear Park on Coastal Water Quality

TThe densification of housing along the edges of the Linear Park negates decades of scientific advancement towards the improvement of coastal water quality and marine life. By infilling backyards with housing and concrete driveways, we reduce the area of land available for uptake of rainwater. Instead, rain falls onto roofing and concrete that is delivered into the storm water system, including the River Torrens. The River Torrens is part of an urban catchment that receives and carries pollutants from our urban activities to our coast. This delivery system has driven loss of marine life, with the larger population-sizes causing larger losses (Gorman et al. 2009).

It is worth knowing that our state scientists and managers have pursued environmental improvements needed to underpin the recreational and commercial values of coastal Adelaide. These improvements represent millions of dollars of investment in science and infrastructure for the long-term benefits of South Australia. By recognizing this pursuit and investment, a better considered 30 –Year Plan is needed for the long-term benefit of South Australians.

Mature Trees Removed at Avenues Shopping Centre

Many local residents were appalled when over 20 healthy mature trees were removed from the Avenues Shopping Centre car park on Boxing Day in 2010. After our Association protested to the Council, this tree removal work was temporarily stopped. However following legal advice, the Council decided that it did not have the power to stop further tree felling on this site, apart from the new owner not being allowed to fell trees defined as “significant” under the Development Act.

Dunstan Grove - Linde Reserve Upgrade

We congratulate Council and Council staff for the excellent work they have done upgrading Dunstone Grove - Linde Reserve. Unfortunately several large trees had to be cut down to make way for the creek banks to be laid back. However the park now looks a treat with the new playground equipment, sculptures, tree and shrub plantings and new bridges over Second Creek. Cormorants, native ducks and Masked Plovers have been seen in or near the creek and frogs heard croaking in the creek bed, now that the concrete lining has been removed.

St Peters Town Hall Renovations

Work is proceeding on the installation of a mezzanine floor into the St. Peters Town Hall to accommodate the library. This is part of a large Council project to renew the St. Peters Civic Centre complex to accommodate a History Centre, move the library into the former Town Hall and allow Radio 3D to move from its Nelson Street premises into the area formerly occupied by the library. Our Association asked Council to consider building side additions to the St. Peters Town Hall rather than inserting a mezzanine floor into it. We were concerned at the loss of the lofty beautiful St.

Bell’s Plumber’s Shop

This State Heritage place on Payneham Road has been allowed to deteriorate into a public eyesore. Attacks on this building in recent years include a mysterious internal explosion and massive graffiti writings on its walls. The State government’s Department of Heritage has the power to fine the owner for neglect of the building. However we understand that the owner has engaged a lawyer to try to have the building removed from the State Heritage list. We are worried that should this owner succeed, it will set a bad example that some others may be tempted to follow.

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