Community input drives final designs
The Department for Infrastructure and Transport has released the final Master Plans for the Cape Jervis and Penneshaw Harbour Precincts, setting out long-term improvements to support safer access, better traffic flow and upgraded public spaces.
The Cape Jervis and Penneshaw harbours are key gateways between the mainland and Kangaroo Island, supporting tourism, freight and daily transport. Both precincts are central to the region’s economy and lifestyle, servicing growing communities that depend on safe, reliable infrastructure.
The final Harbour Precinct Master Plans, were shaped by feedback from local residents, community groups, businesses, industry groups, and other stakeholders including RDA and councils.
Concerns about traffic flow, parking and pedestrian safety informed a range of practical upgrades, such as improved walking paths, redesigned parking layouts and more functional public spaces for both locals and visitors.
Cape Jervis Harbour Precinct
The Cape Jervis Master Plan outlines two options for improving traffic flow, boosting capacity and creating a more welcoming arrival point for ferry passengers. Features include:
- Better access: A new link road connecting to Main South Road to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
- More parking: Expanded long-term parking for cars, trucks and coaches to meet future needs.
- Upgraded boating facilities: A larger boat ramp with multiple launch lanes and pontoons to support both commercial and recreational use.
- A more welcoming arrival: Public realm improvements, including landscaped spaces, a pedestrian plaza near the ferry terminal, and loop walking trails.
- Cultural spaces: Dedicated areas to reflect and celebrate Ngarrindjeri culture and history.
In response to feedback, the plan also includes a commitment to explore options for a new recreational fishing jetty, replacing one removed during earlier port works.
Penneshaw Harbour Precinct
At Penneshaw, the focus is on safety, pedestrian flow, and better integration with the town centre. Key features of the plan include:
- Expanded truck marshalling: The heavy vehicle marshalling area on Bay Terrace will be expanded to accommodate future freight growth.
- Safer movement: Redesigned coach parking, improved intersection layouts, and a new pedestrian footpath to the jetty.
- Public space upgrades: New landscaping and open space improvements to enhance the look and feel of the area.
- Infinity walking loop: A new walking trail around the Penneshaw town centre, connecting local points of interest while avoiding ferry traffic and creating a safer, more enjoyable route for pedestrians.
These changes are designed to ease traffic conflicts, support tourism growth, and provide safer, more accessible spaces for residents and visitors.
Looking ahead
While funding is yet to be committed to delivery of these longer-term plans, they will guide future development and funding decisions. Work is already underway to explore a viable replacement for the Cape Jervis jetty and to improve parking capacity at both precincts.
The plans reflect local voices and regional priorities and are a key step in shaping the future of these important gateways.
More information
Call or email the Department for Infrastructure and Transport
1300 794 880 | DIT.Engagement@sa.gov.au