There’s a major transformation on the cards for North Adelaide’s beloved O’Connell Street – and it’s stirring up a storm. The City of Adelaide wants to make the street safer, greener, and more people-friendly. But some traders claim it could destroy their livelihoods. And sitting squarely in the middle of this clash? A proposed separated bike lane.

The City of Adelaide’s draft concept reimagines the iconic strip with wider footpaths, raised pedestrian crossings, new trees and greenery, better lighting, and a 30 km/h speed limit. And yes, a protected cycleway in each direction.

Some see it as overdue progress. Others see a threat to business-as-usual. So what’s really going on? And why does Bike SA believe this upgrade is not just worthwhile, but essential?

A safer, smarter, more welcoming O’Connell Street

This isn’t just about bike lanes. It’s about transforming the whole street to work better for the people who use it every day. Picture it: safer crossings, smoother footpaths, leafy shade, outdoor seating, and a calmer traffic flow that makes it easier to walk, ride, stop for a coffee, or shop.

The draft design includes:

• Raised pedestrian crossings for safer walking
• Wider footpaths to reduce crowding and increase space for dining
• Street trees and garden beds for shade and beauty
• Improved lighting and street furniture
• A protected bike lane on both sides

These changes might sound dramatic, but they reflect global best practice. Cities everywhere are realising that vibrant, people-friendly streets are good for everyone – residents, visitors, and yes, local businesses too.

The pushback: why are some traders concerned?

Some businesses are circulating a petition against the plan. Their fears mainly centre on parking and access:

• Loss of on-street parking, especially during peak hours
• Reduced car traffic flow
• Harder delivery and loading arrangements

These concerns are not unusual. They come up in almost every city that upgrades a main street. And in almost every case, the fears don’t materialise – or are quickly outweighed by the benefits. Streets that are easier to walk and cycle through tend to attract more people, not fewer.

The business case for better streets

Bike SA backs the project because it ticks every box for a safer, healthier, more successful city. Here’s what the evidence tells us:

1. Safer streets are more inviting streets. Separated bike lanes don’t just make cyclists feel safer, they also act as a buffer between moving cars and pedestrians, making footpaths feel calmer too. Add lower speeds and safer crossings, and not only do you have a safe street to cycle down, you also have a space where people want to linger.

2. People who walk and ride spend more over time. Cyclists and pedestrians might spend slightly less per visit, but they come more often and make spontaneous stops. That means more frequent foot traffic for shops, cafes, and services.

3. Parking won’t vanish – it will just be used smarter. Peak-hour removals are targeted and temporary. Most parking stays. And with better signage and smarter turnover, the same number of customers can be accommodated. Plus, 116 new public parking spaces are earmarked within the new Eighty Eight O’Connell development, adding significant parking capacity.

4. The future is already arriving. With the massive Eighty Eight O’Connell development going up, the area is set to gain hundreds of new residents and workers. They’ll want a street they can walk, ride, shop, and dine along – not one clogged with traffic.

“This isn’t about bikes vs cars,” says Bike SA spokesperson Bailey Underwood. “It’s about building a main street that works for everyone. A place that feels safe, welcoming, and alive. The evidence is in: better streets make better cities.”

Two petitions, two visions

Right now, there are two competing visions for the future of O’Connell Street:

Petition 1: From a concerned business, calling to scrap the bike lane and traffic changes. It warns of lost parking, confusing road layouts, and harm to trade. It has around 1,300 signatures.

Petition 2: From residents and riders, calling on Council to deliver the upgrade as planned. It champions safer footpaths, smart parking, and inclusive design. It now has more than 1,350 signatures.

Bike SA supports the second petition. If you believe in a safer, more successful North Adelaide – one that works for walkers, riders, businesses, and locals – now’s the time to speak up.

Sign here: Save the proposed O’Connell Street Bike Lane

This is bigger than a bike lane

The debate over O’Connell Street isn’t really about two wheels. It’s about what kind of city we want.

Do we double down on traffic and parking, or open our streets to people and possibility?

O’Connell Street has all the ingredients to be a great destination. A place to meet, stroll, eat, and thrive. This upgrade brings that future within reach.

If you want to see it happen, add your name. Let’s make O’Connell Street a place for people.

Save the proposed O’Connell Street Bike Lane