The State Government is contributing $2 million to help create a new community civic space in the centre of Mount Barker.

The Mount Barker District Council is creating a $5 million Town Square as part of a master planned City Centre site which will also include the new Council civic and co-working building, a new laneway between Hutchinson and Stephen Streets, a mix of retail and office space, accommodation and car parking spaces.

The 2,000 square metre Town Square project will be strategically located along Morphett Street, connecting with the surrounding retail, commercial, civic and accommodation precinct.

Bound by Hutchinson Street, Morphett Street, Stephen Street and Druids Avenue, the master planned development will transform a long-time vacant site into a vibrant public space.

The project site is surrounded by shops, cafes, restaurants and other commercial entities, yet currently lacks any existing civic or open space areas.

The new Mount Barker City Centre Town Square will provide a central civic space in a council area that has experienced significant growth and density, with the population projected to reach 65,000 people in the next 22 years.

The town square development will stimulate economic activity and foster community engagement which will enhance Mount Barker’s social, cultural and economic vitality.

Construction on the Town Square is anticipated to commence this year and be completed late 2025.