A new chapter for Norwood: George Street reopens for Easter and Gather Round

The City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters is pleased to announce that construction of the George Street Upgrade is complete with the addition of new street lighting, waste infrastructure and street furniture to be installed in the coming weeks.

On the afternoon of Friday, 27 March, the street was reopened to two-way traffic, ideally timed for the bustling Easter long weekend and the upcoming excitement of the AFL Gather Round at Norwood Oval and Norwood Food & Wine Festival.

Mayor Robert Bria notes the significance of the project.

“This milestone marks the successful delivery of Stage 1 of The Parade Masterplan, a transformational blueprint endorsed to enhance the unique identity of Adelaide’s premier main street.”

The project, which covers the precinct between The Parade and Webbe Street, has reimagined the area as a pedestrian-oriented, climate-resilient and high-quality space.

A greener, safer streetscape

Visitors to George Street will see a significant transformation of the public realm. The previous on-street car parking has been converted into wider, accessible pedestrian footpaths featuring locally sourced clay pavers — part of the Council’s commitment to source local products.

To support the Council’s commitment to increase green canopy cover, the streetscape now features new irrigated garden beds and street trees.

The landscaping includes a thoughtful selection of species: Jacarandas will provide iconic splashes of summer colour and ample shade, while white flowering Crepe Myrtles will provide ample canopy without obstructing sightlines.

Complementing these natural features is enhanced public lighting, designed to improve pedestrian safety and encourage social activity into the evening hours.

Building for the future

While the surface improvements are striking, some of the project's most critical work remains hidden underground.

Essential stormwater drainage infrastructure was installed in both George and Harris Streets. Originally scheduled for 2035, these works were brought forward to be integrated into the upgrade of George Street, addressing localised flooding risks and ensuring the precinct's long-term sustainability while minimising future disruptions to the community.

The George Street Upgrade also incorporated an upgrade to the entrance of the iconic Norwood Concert Hall, seamlessly integrating it with the new streetscape.

The project was delivered via a staged construction approach to maintain access for local traders, residents and visitors.

Despite encountering a few unexpected underground challenges and periods of wet weather, the dedicated project team and local contractors, Outside Ideas, worked diligently to remain on track.

This included a planned construction pause during the 2025 Christmas trading period to support local businesses during their busiest time of year and ensure visitors to the precinct were able to navigate easily and without obstruction.

A lasting project legacy

Mayor Bria notes that the upgraded George Street is more than just a road upgrade project; it is about creating a "safer, greener and more welcoming environment" that encourages people to "linger longer" and connect with one another.

“By integrating critical stormwater drainage with a pedestrian-focused streetscape, we have created a high-quality public realm that directly fosters community wellbeing through increased green canopy cover and landscaping, urban cooling and safer, more inviting spaces to connect and enjoy.

“This project proves that when we prioritise people in our urban design, we don't just upgrade a street—we create a healthy, welcoming, and resilient environment that will support Norwood’s social and economic vitality for generations to come.”

A team effort

The Council thanks local landlords and businesses, residents and visitors for their patience and cooperation throughout the construction process.

Comprehensive planning and proactive engagement were vital in managing the delivery of this complex infrastructure project.

The reopening of George Street to two-way traffic ensures that commuters and shoppers can continue to enjoy seamless access to The Parade.

Whether you are visiting, shopping or heading to Norwood for the AFL Gather Round festivities, we invite you to experience the vibrant new heart of George Street.