What is the plan?

The Strathalbyn and Surrounds Town Plan is a long-term plan that will be used by Council to guide how Strathalbyn and surrounding areas will grow over the next 15 plus years.

The Plan will set a clear direction for future development so that growth happens in a well-planned, sustainable way that reflects local character, community values and needs.

The ability for the township to expand is currently constrained by the Environment and Food Production Area (EFPA) boundary. The scheduled review of this boundary in 2027 presents an opportunity to reconsider the township boundary through the development of the Strathalbyn and Surrounds Town Plan and associated consultation process to support future residential growth.

The new Plan is needed to:

• Respond to forecast population growth and changing housing needs
• Make sure there is enough land for homes, businesses and services
• Plan for infrastructure such as roads, transport, community facilities and utilities
• Protect heritage, environmental values and productive agricultural land
• Align with current planning policies and regional strategies

What will the Plan do?

• Consider housing supply and the community's changing housing needs
• Highlight where future Code Amendments (rezonings) may be needed
• Consider other land use needs
• Assess whether more land is needed for housing, retail, commercial and employment uses to support the growing, changing community and local economy
• Inform existing and future planning tools, such as a Local Area Plan and the Greater Adelaide Regional Plan
• The Plan will be based on detailed investigations, including population trends, infrastructure capacity, traffic and transport, environmental values, and heritage considerations.

Where does the Plan apply?

The Plan will cover the township of Strathalbyn and surrounding areas.

Strathalbyn’s growth has been guided by the Strathalbyn Town Plan 2014–2024, which has now reached the end of its timeframe.

Since the implementation of the Strathalbyn Town Plan, the township's population has increased by 1,616 people, reaching a total of 7,871 residents. This growth has been accompanied by an older demographic profile, with 47.1% of residents aged over 50.

Looking ahead, the township's population is forecast to reach 11,072 by 2041 (+ 3,201 residents) which will drive additional demand for housing, services and infrastructure which are suitable for the changing needs of the community.