Gawler Town Centre Plan Commences

It’s always nice to start a new project in the sunshine - and even better when it’s one with big ideas and a familiar team.

Last month marked the launch of the Gawler Town Centre Structure Plan and Development Delivery Framework, a major piece of strategic work that will guide the future of Gawler’s civic and commercial heart.

Jensen PLUS is leading a multidisciplinary team including Be Engineering Solutions, Phillips Pilkington Architects, Six Cats Consulting, and David Snoswell Property Advisory. We’re thrilled to be working again with the Town of Gawler after our recent collaboration on the G2046 Growth Framework.

“We enjoyed working with this team last year on the G2046 plan, and we’re excited to now be getting into the detail at town centre scale. Mixed use development! Main streets! Heritage! Traffic! Should be great” said Jensen PLUS director Michael.

A closer look
The team recently spent a day on site with Council - walking the study area, discussing design opportunities, and building a shared understanding of the project’s challenges and possibilities. From laneways and car parks to key intersections and heritage shopfronts, it was a valuable reminder that great strategy starts with strong local context.

This project is all about balance: growing the centre’s role and activity while preserving what makes it distinct. That means planning for more retail, commercial and residential space, better access and parking, and stronger links to green space - all while celebrating Gawler’s proud heritage character.

As always our approach is grounded in place-based strategic planning - integrating land use, urban design, transport and heritage to create a clear, site-responsive framework. We are looking to apply a “Town Centre First” philosophy to the plan, prioritising Gawler’s town centre over out-of-town shopping as the key location for growth, investment and public realm improvement.

Local knowledge counts
A Business & Community Reference Group is also being established by the Town of Gawler to guide the process and represent local insight. A move we strongly support!

With early visioning, modelling and design analysis underway, we’re excited to help Gawler take this important step toward a more connected, active, and resilient town centre.

More information about the project and reference group can be found here:
https://www.gawler.sa.gov.au/about-gawler/latest-news/2025/september/eoi-gawler-town-centre-structure-plan-and-development-delivery-framework-business-and-community-reference-group.