The 5049 Coastal Community Association has lodged its formal submission on the City of Holdfast Bay’s Draft 2026-27 Annual Business Plan, offering a range of observations and recommendations on behalf of the Seacliff and Kingston Park community.
Rates and Financial Position
The Association acknowledges the Essential Services Commission SA’s broadly favourable assessment of the Business Plan and welcomes the improvement in Council’s Net Financial Liabilities ratio, which has reduced from 111% to 97%.
However, we note that the proposed rate rise of 6.6% exceeds the 5.4% figure previously advised to the commission. We reiterate its recommendation that a rate cap of less than 10% be introduced and applied automatically — consistent with the approach taken by other South Australian councils.
Capital Investment in Seacliff and Kingston Park
A significant concern raised in the submission is the limited prospect of new capital projects in the Seacliff Ward over the next three to five years, reflecting the financial pressures associated with the Transforming Jetty Road Glenelg project.
Against this backdrop we are calling for Stage 2 of Seacliff Plaza to be designated as Council’s top funding priority. The project would deliver improved beach access, greening, and a more cohesive public precinct — completing a vision already outlined in Council’s existing Masterplan.
Kingston Park Coastal Reserve and Other Priorities
The submission welcomes news that Tulukutangga (Kingston Park Coastal Reserve) Masterplan is approaching Ministerial approval, while noting the substantial funding gap. The gap is estimated at $5–10 million against the $700,000 currently available, this will need to be bridged for works to proceed. We are hopeful that State and Federal funding can be secured to progress key elements, including the restoration of the Tjilbruke Spring.
Other matters addressed in the submission include the Brighton Road tree replacement program, the proposed relocation of the Rifles Monument, community project suggestions for Seacliff Plaza and Singleton Bridge, and the long-term reimagining of Brighton Village and Brighton Road.