South Australia's State Planning Commission has approved a $400 million development from 1835 Property for a new student accommodation tower in Adelaide's CBD.
Designed by local architecture practice Brown Falconer, the 33-storey tower is sited within a current carpark at 88 North Terrace, behind Trinity Church - the city's oldest church.
According to a release from the SA government, the construction of the tower will be accompanied by heritage upgrades across the church's landholding, including a new ministry and administration facilities.
The government's communique notes that "the project has received the support of the Trinity Church Network, which sees the development as a generational opportunity to renew and enhance its historic site."
"We see this partnership to develop our site as a wonderful opportunity to enhance our ministry to the people of the City of Adelaide," said senior pastor of Trinity Church Adelaide Paul Harrington. "This development will place us at the heart of a vibrant university precinct."
Located nearby the new Adelaide University, and Adelaide's biomedical, cultural and transport links, the project is envisioned as a central hub for student life.
Adelaide University co-vice chancellor professor Peter Høj commented, "Adelaide University welcomes this development because it will offer students, in particular those who move here from interstate and overseas, an excellent chance to experience the heart of our city while they settle into university life."
The scheme's 1002 rooms, which include a mix of studio, shared, and premium apartments, are supported by "best in class" student amenity and experiences, including a cinema, gym, dedicated yoga studio, collaborative study zones, social lounges, communal kitchen and dining spaces, cafe, and a landscaped public piazza.
Brown Falconer released a statement noting that their design "forms a striking contemporary backdrop" to the Trinity Church precinct. "The project establishes a new gateway to the city, offering students an unbeatable location and exceptional amenity, including an expansive rooftop terrace with views towards Adelaide Oval," the statement reads.
Deputy Premier of SA Susan Close commented, "This approval is a win for our economy, for our universities and for our city's vibrancy. It will not only provide world-class living and learning spaces for students, but also create hundreds of local jobs and breathe new life into the west of the city."
"This landmark development marks a transformative moment for Adelaide's city centre and for the thousands of students who will call it home," Close said.
Construction is scheduled to commence in January, with completion expected by April 2028.
