Work Begins to Reshape Palmeira Square Flowerbeds

Work has begun this week to reshape the flowerbeds at Palmeira Square (North), marking the next stage of improvements to the popular green space. The scheme forms part of a soft landscaping project led by the council in partnership with members of the Palmeira Square Partnership working group. The aim is to refresh the garden’s […]

Work has begun this week to reshape the flowerbeds at Palmeira Square (North), marking the next stage of improvements to the popular green space.

The scheme forms part of a soft landscaping project led by the council in partnership with members of the Palmeira Square Partnership working group. The aim is to refresh the garden’s planting areas and create a more attractive, sustainable environment for residents and visitors. The work is expected to continue for several weeks.

The new design has been shaped by more than 1,100 responses to a public consultation and will be supported by local community groups once completed. Earlier work began in October, focusing on redesigning pathways to improve accessibility and removing railings to open up views and connections across the square.

This initial phase will prepare the site for spring planting and includes changes to the layout of the flowerbeds. The planting scheme will be delivered in partnership with the Friends of Adelaide and Palmeira Square (FOPA), ensuring the local community plays an active role in shaping and caring for the space.

Fencing around the square will remain in place for the duration of the works.

The new planting will prioritise pollinator-friendly species, drought-tolerant plants and ground-cover varieties to boost biodiversity and help the garden adapt to a changing climate. The design also reflects the square’s historic character, celebrating elements of its pre-1953 layout while introducing modern, sustainable planting.

The Floral Clock will remain untouched during this phase of the project.

A separate consultation on the future of the Floral Clock was carried out in autumn 2025, after the feature had remained out of use for many years.

No decision has yet been made, with council officers continuing to work alongside the Palmeira Square Working Group to develop fully costed and feasible options. Any proposals will be subject to further public consultation before a final decision is taken.

Councillor Alan Robins, Cabinet Member for Sport, Recreation and Libraries, said: “We’re delighted to be kicking off the new year with work starting on the next stage of improvements at Palmeira Square. This project reflects our commitment to maintaining and enhancing green spaces for the community while increasing biodiversity and adapting to climate change.”