Feedback sought on heritage standards in two historical South Australian precincts

The South Australian government has proposed updated heritage standards for the Goolwa and Port Adelaide State Heritage Areas, in a move that seeks to protect the historical character of two of the state's oldest maritime precincts from inappropriate future developments.

Port Adelaide was South Australia's first port (declared as a port in 1837) and the first local government area to be designated as a State Heritage Area due to its vast collection of colonial buildings - the largest collection in the state. Many of these historical nineteenth century structures supported commercial activities related to the shipping trade.

Goolwa also played a vital role in Australia's trade history during the mid- to late-1800s, serving as a key port along the Murray River for the transportation of goods to and from Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

The state government is currently revising the existing Guidelines for Development across 17 State Heritage Areas, introducing a new heritage standard for each area. If the revisions receive approval, they will be used to evaluate planning and development applications referred to the heritage minister. The approved standards will also be shared with property owners to offer guidance on permissible modifications and additions to buildings.

Michael Queale, the principal heritage architect for the Department for Environment and Water, said State Heritage Areas serve to protect and celebrate places that hold historical, cultural or natural significance, as well as demostrate the evolution of the state.

"Property owners can use the heritage standard for advice when they submit a development application. It covers what is acceptable for new buildings or changes like fences, pergolas, sheds, adding rainwater tanks, or any development that might affect heritage values," he said.

"The proposed heritage standard will not change any regulated development application fees, nor does it change the heritage listing status of properties within the State Heritage Area. These properties will continue to be protected."