Today marks a significant and positive turning point for Port Adelaide.
The South Australian Heritage Council has dismissed the latest round of attempts by the Port Adelaide Branch of the National Trust to list the Fisherman’s Wharf Shed (No.1 Cargo Shed) on the State Heritage Register, confirming what has been evident all along: the structure holds no heritage significance under the Act, and efforts to delay progress were unfounded.
This decision clears the way for One SMG Property to continue delivering on a community-endorsed vision to revitalise this iconic waterfront.
"This is a great day for Port Adelaide. It affirms that our shared future, not a disputed past, will shape this precinct," said Hans Ehmann, Managing Director of One SMG Property. "This site has the potential to be a vibrant new chapter in the story of Port Adelaide. We’re proud to lead that transformation."
John Byleveld Architects, in comprehensive submissions to the Council, demonstrated that the recent nominations presented no new evidence and repeated previously dismissed claims. The structure itself, heavily altered and built on reclaimed land in the 1950s does not meet any criteria for State Heritage listing. Nor does it reflect the values of community, historical or architectural merit required under the Heritage Places Act.
"It’s deeply frustrating to see the Heritage Act misused in this way," added Mr Ehmann. "We support heritage protection where it’s warranted, our planned restoration of Customs House shows that; this was clearly an attempt to obstruct progress, not preserve it."
The community has already voiced strong support for the master plan, released in June 2024, and this decision brings us one step closer to delivering new open spaces, mixed-use development, and a reinvigorated waterfront that Port Adelaide deserves.
We now call on government and planning authorities to ensure the integrity of the Heritage Act is maintained and that it cannot be used as a tool for delay when no credible heritage basis exists.
Port Adelaide’s next chapter begins now.
Read the full response to State Heritage Nominations here.
