Strategic Land Acquisition to Support Tailem Bend’s Future Growth

The Coorong District Council has successfully acquired a strategically significant parcel of land on the outskirts of Tailem Bend, paving the way for future residential development and urban expansion.

In September 2024, Council received an offer from Airservices Australia as part of their standard land disposal process to purchase a 2.4-hectare property at Lot 104 Kulde Road, Tailem Bend. The site, formerly used for radio communications in air traffic control, was deemed surplus to government requirements due to advancements in satellite technology.

Coorong District Council’s Mayor Paul Simmons has emphasised the strategic importance of Council owning the land, which can now be rezoned in such a way that will support the growth of the town and provides the potential for up to 20 residential blocks.

“Had Council not acted, the site could have been developed as a single Rural Living block or split into just a few lots, limiting its potential. This acquisition ensures orderly and economically efficient growth, allowing Council to guide planning outcomes and infrastructure investment,” says Mayor Paul Simmons.

Following confidential negotiations and an independent valuation, Coorong District Council secured the property for $200,000, with settlement finalised on 11 June 2025. The Council plans to initiate rezoning of the site and surrounding Council-owned land later this year.

“The site is set for rezoning from Rural Living to Neighbourhood (Residential) in 2026. It features prominently in Coorong District Council’s Growth Strategy as a key block for town expansion and the provision of housing and infrastructure,” says Mayor Paul Simmons.

Mayor Simmons added, “This was an exceptional opportunity and a shrewd investment that will benefit the community for decades to come and allow Council the flexibility to develop land based on community needs into the future.”

Following the completion of the Tailem Bend Structure Plan in 2026, the rezoned land may be released to the market, generating funds for vital community projects.

-ENDS-

Contact:

Bridget Mather

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER | COORONG DISTRICT COUNCIL

Phone: 1300 785 277 | E: council@coorong.sa.gov.au