Update - October 2023

In mid-August, an application was submitted to Marion Council for the development of an indoor recreation centre, comprising an ice-skating rink and an indoor rock-climbing facility, along with associated car parking and landscaping. Council is currently reviewing the submitted documentation to determine if any additional documentation is necessary, which is a standard part of the process.

Assuming the application is found to be complete and in compliance with all relevant regulations, the next step will involve the payment of necessary fees, marking the commencement of the formal approval process.

It's important to note that the planning approval process is expected to be a time-intensive endeavour, with the expectation that it will extend well into next year. The developer will be required to meet all relevant requirements, such as those related to parking and noise, to gain approval from the assessment panel. Subsequently, construction is anticipated to commence in 2024.

Information

An unsolicited proposal from a group of private investors to build an international standard ice rink and rock-climbing facility in Marion has been endorsed by the City of Marion with the proposed lease agreement to go out for public consultation.

Ice Rinks Adelaide and the Pelligra Group want to build the $20 million venture on a 10,000sqm site at 262a Sturt Road that they plan to lease from Council for 42-years.

The site is owned by Council and is classified as “Community Land” so the intention to lease and subsequent changes to the Community Land Management Plan will go out for public consultation before any formal agreement is reached with the investors.

The proposal would still have to go through a subsequent formal planning process.

The proposal includes:

• An international standard ice rink (single sheet)
• 350-450 spectator capacity
• Pro shop
• Sport Climbing – international competition rock climbing walls
• Recreational rock climbing and bouldering
• Themed rock-climbing walls for children
• Children’s play café
• Kiosk/restaurant

How much would this proposal cost Council?

This proposal involves no capital investment from the Council. The developers would pay rent over the term of the lease and offer discounts for City of Marion residents who use the facility. Note: This venture is smaller in scale than an original two-rink proposal put to the Council back in 2018. The terms of the lease remain commercial-in-confidence at this early stage.

When will construction begin if the consultation is successful?

Any development will require Development Approval, which among other things would include satisfactory traffic and parking solutions. If the proposal is formally signed off, work on the facility would start later this year. In agreeing to consider the lease, Council has resolved to prohibit traffic movements from 262a Sturt Road to Shelley Avenue or Christina Street.

What is the proposed site currently used for?

The site is currently used by the Marion Croquet Club. Members have been informed of the decision. The club does not currently have a lease agreement with the council.

Have your say - CONSULTATION CLOSED

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