A pedestrian airbridge, introduced across the lofty heights of the Adelaide Railway Station concourse in the 1980s, will be removed as part of the latest efforts to restore the city landmark back to its former glory.
The structure’s removal will allow for the reinstatement of the historic central concourse balcony and restore unobstructed views along the grand concourse for the first time in almost 30 years.
The airbridge was originally built to provide a valet service between Adelaide Casino and the adjacent InterContinental Hotel porte-cochere. The location of the airbridge substantially diminishes the volume and scale of the concourse space and blocks key sightlines.
It has sat obsolete since the opening of six-star hotel, Eos by SkyCity and the relocation of SkyCity’s valet service to the new Festival Car Park in 2021.
Built Pty Ltd has been appointed to complete the demolition and restoration project, with works expected to commence next month. The majority of works will be undertaken at night, allowing the station, and the retail outlets including The Guardsman bar and restaurant within, to remain fully operational for the duration of the project.
Approximately 230,000 rail commuters access the station weekly, together with a high flow of visitor and pedestrian foot traffic that passes through it between North Terrace and the Adelaide Riverbank (Karrawirra Pari).
“Since 2020, Renewal SA has been diligently progressing a program of works to uplift and revitalise the station and its surrounding public areas,” Renewal SA Executive Director, Property and Major Projects, Todd Perry, said.
The ultimate goal of this revitalisation project is to honour the station’s unique 1920s character and create a destination that beckons people to spend time at the station, rather than merely pass through it; a place where people can truly immerse themselves in its unique charm.
Todd Perry, Executive Director, Property and Major Projects
Adelaide Railway Station featuring the airbridge which will be removed
“The rejuvenation of the broader Adelaide Riverbank precinct has seen unprecedented levels of investment in new, expanded and revitalised cultural, tourism, sporting and public facilities and institutions that flank the River Torrens. The Adelaide Railway Station is a vital component of this entertainment precinct – a historic centrepiece – which should be celebrated.”
Mr Perry said Built had the proven experience in heritage building restoration at the Station having recently undertaken the western and eastern façade restoration project.
“The project requires in-depth knowledge of the historical significance and cultural value of the building to ensure the preservation of the historical building fabric and Built has extensive experience in neoclassical buildings,” he said.
The removal of the airbridge is scheduled to be complete by late 2023.