Maitland’s Robert Street is set for a significant upgrade, with a $1.5 million budget allocated towards the project.

The project will deliver a range of improvements to Robert Street, including replacement of kerb and gutter, repairs and re-laying of pavers impacted by the roots of the existing Plane Trees, and minor drainage improvements.

As part of the works, the existing Plane Trees will be removed. Council is currently seeking quotes for the removal, with the trees to be cut down to just above ground level.

The tree stumps will remain in place until the aging water mains beneath the street are replaced.

SA Water is currently undertaking design work for the replacement of the water mains, with the project expected to be put out to tender within the next two months.

Coordinating the water main replacement with the broader street upgrade will help ensure works are undertaken as efficiently as possible and minimise the need for future disruption.

Council will shortly go to tender for its component of the Robert Street works, while Department of Infrastructure and Transport will undertake resurfacing and pavement rehabilitation along Robert Street and adjoining parking bays at a later date.

Council, SA Water and DIT are meeting regularly to coordinate the project and will provide further information about timing, staging and potential disruptions as details become available over the coming months.

Mayor Kylie Gray said the project would deliver important improvements to Maitland’s town centre.

“This project has been a long time in the making, and I know there has been a great deal of interest from the Maitland community,” she said.

“It’s an investment in Maitland’s future; supporting local businesses, creating a more vibrant and welcoming town centre, and strengthening Maitland’s important role as one of the key service centres on the Yorke Peninsula.”