More delays in $600m Market Square revamp

By the Editorial Team · Monday, October 12, 2026

The $600 million Market Square redevelopment at Adelaide Central Market has been delayed, with trader move-ins now expected just before Easter 2027 due to construction challenges completing ground-floor retail spaces. While retail opening is postponed, other components like the office tower, apartments, hotel, and new supermarket remain on track, supporting the broader goal of revitalizing the precinct.

The $600 million Market Square redevelopment at the Adelaide Central Market site has encountered further delays, pushing the anticipated trader move-in date to just before Easter 2027. Joint venture partners Adelaide City Council and ICD Property had initially aimed to open the precinct to the public by the end of 2026, but unforeseen construction issues have postponed this timeline by several months.

More than 50 traders who are set to occupy the expanded market precinct were notified of the delay last Friday. According to the council, difficulties related to finalizing the construction of retail spaces on the ground floor are primarily responsible for the setback. The project was originally slated for completion in 2024 but has experienced a series of interruptions.

Previous delays have been attributed to multiple design modifications in the early phases and a significant asbestos discovery in 2023, which temporarily halted construction for several months. Despite these challenges, the Market Square project team reported that work on the expanded ground floor is nearing completion, with shop fit-outs expected to begin shortly.

Adelaide Central Market Authority chairman Theo Maras emphasized continued collaboration with traders to enhance the market’s appeal. “We’re working closely with our traders to enhance one of the world’s great food and produce markets with even more reasons to visit, explore and connect,” he said. Maras also expressed optimism about the development’s eventual opening in 2027. “We’re more excited than ever to open the doors to something every South Australian can be proud of.”

The delay affecting the retail component does not impact other aspects of the development, which remain on schedule. Workers have begun moving into the new office tower, and residents are expected to start occupying the apartments in November. The hotel development is slated for completion in early 2027. Additionally, the new Coles supermarket and adjacent car park are anticipated to open ahead of the Christmas period.

The Market Square redevelopment aims to revitalize the Adelaide Central Market precinct by expanding retail space and incorporating mixed-use elements, including office, residential, and hospitality facilities. Despite the setbacks, stakeholders remain committed to delivering a project that contributes to the city’s cultural and economic vibrancy.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.