Media response - development boom
Published on 13 February 2020
Response to Southern Times Messenger.
- I'm working on a weekend story for the Advertiser about the development boom in the south, particularly looking at the 4 hotels that are planned for McLaren Vale but also the new school in Aldinga and housing developments. Is possible to get some lines from the Mayor about what her vision for McLaren Vale is and how not enough people stay overnight in the region, they drive back to the city? With new five-star accommodation planned, they will now have the option to stay and inject this cash direct into Southern coffers?
Comments attributed to Erin Thompson, Mayor
The City of Onkaparinga is experiencing strong growth, not only in tourism but also residential. Because why wouldn’t you want to call this place home - we have an incredible mix of attributes – pristine beaches, unique townships and lifestyle choices, and an internationally recognised wine and food region all within 40 minutes of a capital city.
We’ve seen a new wave of innovative wine tourism development including the iconic d’Arenberg Cube, which has been featured nationally and internationally by the South Australian Tourism Commission and Tourism Australia, as well as new cellar doors, breweries, distilleries and eateries opening up all the time.
Just this week we’ll see the launch of the Chalk Hill Collective a new venue comprising Chalk Hill Wines, Never Never Distilling Co. (named best Gin in the world) and VPO (Vera Pizza Oztalia) restaurant. It’s new developments like this that are elevating our tourism profile and inspiring future tourism opportunities.
When you combine that with new accommodation options like the recently approved accommodation developments for Wirra Wirra and Leconfield on McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale it positions us well to grow our tourism economy and attract new visitors.
The state government recently announced a new super school, complementing Council’s ongoing investment in Aldinga including the regional centre and new library. These major state and local government investments will cater for current and future demand in one of the fastest growing communities in South Australia.
Visitor spend in the City of Onkaparinga continues to grow sustainably contributing over $200-million per year to our local economy, however we have an opportunity to significantly grow this.
As a gateway to the Fleurieu Peninsula and Kangaroo Island, we are perfectly placed to attract overnight stays. The McLaren Vale and Fleurieu Coast region is a popular day destination because of its proximity to Adelaide, but visitors realise they need more than a day to experience all it has to offer.
We continue to work with our partners across the Fleurieu Peninsula to ensure visitors do more, spend more and stay longer, supporting local business and driving our regional economy.
ENDS