Port Pirie Riverbank Upgrades Taking Shape
Positive changes are taking shape atthe popular Solomontown Beach area in Port Pirie, as works continue to progress on the Port Pirie Riverbank Precinct Master Plan (Stage 1) project.
Priorities for Stage 1 of the Port Pirie Riverbank Precinct Master Plan were determined through a community consultation process where the community was invited to share ideas and provide feedback on the concept plans which are now coming to fruition. Projects of this significance take time to plan and deliver with the consultation starting back in March 2020 with a number of community engagement opportunities provided along the way.
New picnic shelters, BBQ equipment and park furniture have been installed and are being enjoyed by the community and visitors to the area.
A basketball half-court was recently completed, with the court surface design currently out for consultation until Friday 20 September 2024.
A new beach deck and shade sail structure with multiple shade sails will replace the existing main beach shelter), with demolition and removal works planned for 19 – 25 September. The new multi-level beach deck with seating areas will create a large, modern and inviting area for families and beachgoers to gather and enjoy while taking in the spectacular view of the Pirie River and Flinders Ranges, complete with an accessibility ramp enabling access for all down onto the beach and connection to the jetty.
Construction works for the deck will commence in late September and continue until late February 2025. The deck will be constructed of an Australian made sustainable fibre reinforced polymer to ensure the structure is long lasting and low maintenance.
The history of the Solomontown Beach will be recognised through Council’s digital Heritage Trail with an onsite marker with information and stories for everyone to reflect on the past times while enjoying the modern facilities.
A new exposed aggregate concrete path has been constructed along the promenade, creating an attractive and practical surface to walk and cycle on. The remaining sections of path will be completed once the beach deck is completed.
The area for the new nature-inspired playground and water play space is being prepared. Installation of the new play area is planned for the end of October and will be located in the area of the existing main BBQ shelter which is due for removal shortly. The play areas will feature rubber soft fall for accessibility and inclusivity.
It is anticipated that the new play area will be completed by mid-December. The space where the existing playground is located will be repurposed with lawn as an additional recreation and relaxation area.
These works follow the completion of the foreshore pump track and refurbished toilet block late last year.
The finishing touches will include the landscaping of the Solomontown Beach foreshore area with the restoration of lawn areas and new low shrubs and shade trees. Additional furniture will be installed to complement the bike repair station as well as additional water bubblers and a hand washing station.
Improvements to the car park areas and kerb have been completed along Beach Road and it is expected that Beach Road will be included in the annual road resealing program in 2025/26.
Works to repair the skate park will be tendered shortly with works expected to be completed April – May 2025.
As part of Council’s Waste Management Strategy, the bin enclosures are being reviewed with a Council-wide roll out expected in the 2025/26 financial year.
The Port Pirie Riverbank Precinct Master Plan Stage 1 project has been jointly funded by the Federal Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program and Port Pirie Regional Council and we anticipate there will be many wellbeing, social, environmental and lifestyle benefits as a result.
Indicative images of the new beach deck and shelter structure and nature / water play areas:
