The State Government has opened a new $2.9 million public square at West Beach Parks, just in time for the summer school holidays.

‘The Square at West Beach Parks’ is located on the coastal path between Glenelg and Henley Beach and includes a playground, butterfly garden, a kiosk, BBQ area and is designed to support community events, such as artisan markets and food festivals.

The community space has been built in less than five months and transforms empty land into a new beachside hub, nestled among the foreshore and natural vegetation.

The site, which has been vacant for 18 months, has been re-established with natural vegetation and coastal artwork, including story poles and the sculpture of a blue-ringed octopus (Paitya Marawiti) by Kaurna/Ngarrindjeri artist Allan Sumner.

The space is open to the public in time for the summer holidays and will provide an opportunity for community events to be held at the popular beachside location.

Last financial year, West Beach Parks had 720,000 visitors to the precinct, which includes a diverse recreation, sporting and accommodation activities and facilities.

‘The Square at West Beach Parks’ has been developed and funded by West Beach Parks, supported by a $1.45m State Government grant from the Planning and Development Fund.