Peet transforms historic Fort Largs into community hub
Peet has reached a significant milestone with the completion of the Fort Largs restoration project, transforming the historic landmark into a vibrant community hub. The state heritage-listed fort will open its doors to the public for the first time in over 100 years, offering a brand-new eatery and fresh produce market.
The Fort Largs restoration is part of a $170 million development which also encompasses over 200 new homes. With over 85% of homes already sold and the first residents beginning to move in, the fort’s opening marks a significant milestone. Over 90 homes are currently under construction, with an additional 30 expected to be completed before Christmas 2024. The final release is planned for early 2025.
The restored fort was unveiled at an opening event today attended by Susan Close, Deputy Premier of South Australia; South Australian fishing industry identify, Jarn Jamison and SA Police Assistant Commissioner, Stuart McLean. Following the ceremony, attendees toured the fort's new amenities and received a briefing on its history and restoration.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Heritage Susan Close said,
“The Fort Largs development is transforming this part of the Lefevre Peninsula and I’m looking forward to seeing residents move in over the coming months and years. Peet has done a great job to retain some of the sites heritage values while providing much needed housing in the area. This will really activate this part of the peninsula including for those that don’t necessarily live at Fort Largs but who will take advantage of these fantastic new facilities.”
L-R: Mark Devine Peet SA State Manager, Clare Boan Mayor of the City of Port Adelaide Enfield, Susan Close MP Deputy Premier of SA, Jarn Jamison Fort owner and operator, SA Police Assistant Commissioner Stuart McLean
Originally constructed in the 1880s to defend Port Adelaide’s coastline, Fort Largs has been an important part of the state’s history. It previously served as barracks for the Women’s Royal Australian Army Corps in the 1950s and later housed the South Australian Police Academy until the early 2000s.
Since 2012, the fort has remained vacant and in disrepair. Peet committed to undertake the $10 million restoration project as part of the broader Fort Largs development. This innovative adaptive re-use has been carefully planned to minimise alterations to the original structure and preserve the site for generations to come, whilst also educating the community about its rich history.
“We have invested heavily to preserve the fort’s heritage and bring it back to life as part of the new Fort Largs community. As the project nears completion, we’re excited to unveil this new community hub which will become a landmark for the Lefevre Peninsula. By integrating the fort with new public open spaces and a diverse range of housing options, we've created a place where history and modern life can live together,” said Peet Managing Director and CEO Brendan Gore.
The fort has a strong focus on local food producers and now houses a range of eateries including pasta, pizza and seafood restaurants, and an ice cream parlour. A new café building, seamlessly integrated with the fort, further extends the use of the heritage site while providing a vibrant space for community connection.
As part of the development, Peet has worked closely with Jarn Jamison, who will take charge of the fort.
“We are delighted to welcome the Fort Largs community through our doors to enjoy this space for the first time in its history. In addition to creating fantastic opportunities for small businesses in the area, it will provide a vibrant new space for the community to come together. Marketgoers can also look forward to access to fresh produce sourced directly from local farms, offering some of the state’s finest ingredients alongside a variety of local creative stalls, featuring clothing designers, musicians, and craft makers,” said Mr. Jamison.