St Helen's Park Projects
Address: 39 Prospect Road, Prospect
Ward: Central Ward
What: Reactive restoration and safety upgrades
Dates: July 2022 - TBC
Status: Construction Procurement Phase
- St Helen's Rotunda Restoration St Helen's Rotunda Restoration
- St Helen's Lighting Upgrade St Helen's Lighting Upgrade
In July 2022, the St Helen's Park Rotunda was closed in the interest of public safety following the identification of the degraded condition of the capital features on top of the support posts of the structure.
Since then, we have undertaken detailed investigations which identified the level of deterioration of the steel columns is far greater than externally visible. Unfortunately, this has delayed the re-opening of the rotunda and necessitated a much more complex review due to the unique heritage value of the structure to determine the scope and design of rectification works required.
All columns will need to be replaced with new footings installed and the proposed methodology will involve the careful de- construction of the existing rotunda, and retention of materials that can be re-used. The existing roof frame has also been assessed and requires full replacement due to the degree of structural upgrade that needs to be undertaken.
Rotunda Reconstruction
Council has engaged a specialist heritage architect and design services for reconstruction work has been finalised. It has been determined that the new structure will be moved approximately 2m east from its current location, this is mainly to ensure there is less impact to the adjacent carob tree’s root system. It also makes the structure more prominent from the road, while having minimal impact on the open space area. The rotunda will also feature improved public access, which will see DDA compliant ramp and handrails installed. New LED lighting will improve energy efficiency.
The project is currently within the ‘construction procurement phase’ which includes the tender and the appointment of a successful construction contractor. Regrettably, the procurement process and delivery timeframe has been extended due to market forces, and the new estimated delivery time is approximately September 2024.
The rotunda reconstruction continues to remain a priority project given the community benefit it provides and the keen interest by the community on its reconstruction.
Note: Bookings for the use of the rotunda are not being taken at this time.
History and Description
The two-storeyed house was built in 1860 for James Harrington and was, as one writer put it, 'a pleasant and gracious place.' In 1885 the house was purchased by Frederick William Bullock the Adelaide real estate agent and entrepreneur. The house was purchased by City of Prospect in 1946.
The former Coach House stands at the end of Koonga Avenue on the eastern side of the Reserve. The Coach House was constructed as part of the St Helen’s mansion built in 1860. It is now used as a City of Prospect utility facility.
The Victorian style bandstand (rotunda) was constructed in the 1970s following the demolition of the St Helen's mansion, using elements of the house veranda, including the cast iron balustrade.
Heritage Value
St Helen's Park, with it's former Coach House and Bandstand (rotunda), displays historical and social themes that are of importance to the local area as a Council provided community space.
Created in 1946, the site is identified as a Heritage Status listing, LHP (Local Heritage Place). The extent of listing place is the Former Coach House and Bandstand in entirety, roof and all four walls of the Coach house.
Council meeting agenda - 28 March 2023 PDF, 41021.33 KB Section 10.8 (pages 123 - 182)
As part of Council’s asset renewal plan the project includes upgrading existing electrical main switch board infrastructure, upgrading of the existing pathway lighting, Coach House and general area floodlights to LED lighting, replacement of the existing distribution switchboards and cabinets. The objective of this project is to improve facilities and overall safety for park users at all times of the day.