The old Glossop High School site – officially now up for sale – should be repurposed as a centre for Riverland youth, rather than sold off to private interests, a long-time local says.
Dormant since 2022, the vast 17-hectare site is now on the market, but local man Ian Penno says the Riverland is “losing an opportunity” to address concerns with troubled young people in the region.
“We have success stories such as Operation Flinders and the Aboriginal Youth Pathways to Employment Pilot,” Mr Penno said.
“The former Glossop High School would be a perfect precinct for such programs. (It has) ready-made classrooms, technical rooms (and) sporting grounds.
“Be involved in country-style community programmes. Be involved in local horticulture and industry.
“Have the participant build motel-style, self-contained units to live in and learn self-sufficient living and care.”
It is understood the property is being sold by RWC Adelaide, on behalf of Renewal SA.
RWC partner Jack Dyson told The Advertiser the property had potential to be re-purposed for different uses.
“Located on the corner of Old Sturt Highway and Distillery Road, the former high school presents an exciting opportunity to own and operate the education facilities, or develop to suit horticulture, residential or commercial uses,” Mr Dyson said.
“There are multiple teaching and administration buildings, a gymnasium and storage sheds, across six titles to cut and carve to suit requirements.”
However, Mr Penno said ensuring the site continues to benefit the development of young Riverlanders should be a priority.
“The Riverland needs to lead change, needs to take and have control of our communities,” he said.
“Set the benchmark. This is our opportunity to give these kids life experiences (away from) the streets and experience what life really has to offer.
“The easy option is a sell off and then take the funds to some useless project in Adelaide that would have absolutely no benefit to the youth of South Australia or the Riverland.”
Expressions of interest for the site are set to close at 4pm on 3 October.
This article appeared in the Murray Pioneer, 11 September 2024.
