Tumby Bay Urban Design Framework Review 2026–2036
Open Space and Land Use Planning Project
The District Council of Tumby Bay has successfully secured $75,000 (ex GST) through Stream Two – Infrastructure Planning of the South Australian Government’s Thriving Regions Fund.
This funding will support a strategic planning project to review and update the Tumby Bay Urban Design Framework (UDF) and undertake planning for key open space areas within the township.
Council will contribute $32,143, bringing the total project budget to $107,143 (ex GST).
This project will help guide future land use planning, open space investment and infrastructure decision making within Tumby Bay through to 2036.
Project background
The Tumby Bay Urban Design Framework (UDF) and Master Plan was adopted in 2015 and provides long term planning guidance for the Tumby Bay township.
Since the framework was prepared, community needs, planning priorities and environmental considerations have evolved. Council is now undertaking a review of the framework to ensure it reflects current conditions and future planning needs.
Why this project is being undertaken
The Tumby Bay Urban Design Framework (UDF) and Master Plan was prepared in 2015 to guide the future planning and development of the township.
Over time, community needs, infrastructure priorities and planning considerations change. Council is undertaking this project to review and update the framework and master plan so that it continues to provide clear direction for future land use, open space planning and community infrastructure investment.
The review will consider a range of planning factors, including:
- Future land use and township growth opportunities;
- Planning for community open space and recreation areas;
- Accessibility and inclusive design in public spaces;
- Coastal conditions and long-term foreshore planning;
- Community infrastructure needs for current and future residents; and
- Opportunities to support housing and workforce needs within the district.
These considerations will help ensure the updated framework reflects current and future community needs and provides a clear basis for future planning and investment decisions.
What the project will deliver
This project will produce planning documents and concept planning packages to guide future decision making.
Updated Urban Design Framework and Master Plan
The Urban Design Framework and Master Plan will be reviewed and updated to guide land use planning, infrastructure priorities and open space investment within Tumby Bay through to 2036.
Open Space precinct planning
Planning packages will be prepared for two key open space areas within the Tumby Bay township.
- Harvey Drive Reserve
Planning will explore options for the future use and development of the Harvey Drive open space area, including recreation opportunities, accessibility improvements and community amenity.
- Tumby Bay Foreshore Reserve
Planning will explore options for the future use and activation of the foreshore while considering coastal conditions and long term resilience.
Land Use and Revenue Assessment
A Land Use and Revenue Assessment will review Council owned land and explore potential future land use options to help inform long term planning considerations and possible reinvestment pathways.
This project focuses on strategic planning and concept development only.
It will not deliver construction, or infrastructure works at this stage. Any future projects identified through the planning process will require further Council decisions, funding and approvals.
Strategic alignment
This project supports the directions identified in Council’s Strategic Plan 2020–2030, particularly those relating to:
- Maintaining a balanced approach between lifestyle and growth;
- Supporting connected, vibrant and inclusive communities; and
- Planning and managing community infrastructure to meet future needs
The project also aligns with Council’s adopted planning and infrastructure strategies, including:
- Coastal Adaptation Strategy
- Infrastructure Asset Management Plan
- Disability Access and Inclusion Plan
These strategies highlight the importance of planning accessible, inclusive and sustainable community infrastructure and public spaces.
Budget and funding
The total project budget is $107,143 (ex GST).
Funding for the project includes:
- South Australian Government Thriving Regions Fund – $75,000
- District Council of Tumby Bay contribution – $32,143
Council’s contribution will be allocated from existing planning and open space related budget provisions within the 2025/26 Annual Business Plan, including funding allocated to open space planning and accessible public space improvements.
Funding acknowledgement
This project is supported by funding from the South Australian Government through the Thriving Regions Fund.
Planning for future open space investment
Council’s 2025/26 Annual Business Plan included $91,200 allocated for playground renewal works, at Lakin Crescent Playground and the Tumby Island lookout swing as part of Council’s asset renewal program.
The above assets are in close proximity to the Harvey Drive open space area, which is being explored through this planning project.
Through the planning process, Council will consider how existing renewal funding may best support future open space improvements. Completing detailed precinct planning will help Council determine how this funding could contribute toward coordinated upgrades to open space and play infrastructure in the Harvey Drive area. The available renewal funding will be held over until completion of the planning work, likely for the 2027/28 financial year.
The planning work may also help Council use existing renewal funding as seed funding for future grant applications, supporting opportunities to deliver new assets, improved play value, accessibility and community amenity through larger projects.
Any future works will be subject to Council decisions, funding availability and required approvals.
Existing playground infrastructure
As part of Council’s regular playground inspection and asset management program, the Lakin Crescent Playground has been assessed and is not identified as requiring immediate replacement.
The playground will continue to be inspected and monitored in accordance with Council’s routine playground inspection and maintenance processes.
Community engagement
Community input will form an important part of this project.
Residents from across the Council district will be invited to provide feedback as part of the consultation process.
Further information about consultation opportunities will be provided as the project progresses.
Project timing
Procurement planning has commenced, with the work expected to be developed during 2026 and finalised in early 2027.
Project updates
Updates will be provided here as the project progresses.
Contact
District Council of Tumby Bay
Phone: (08) 8688 2101
Email: dctumby@tumbybay.sa.gov.au