Sisters Koula and Mary Raptis have been left “devastated and heartbroken” after learning their Glandore music school, Allegro Music, is set to be compulsorily acquired by the South Australian government for the Torrens to Darlington road upgrade.
The sisters, aged 62 and 60, have operated their music teaching business on Anzac Highway for 18 years after their previous South Road premises was acquired in 2007 for the Gallipoli Underpass.
According to The Advertiser, they were previously reassured that their new property would not be affected by future infrastructure projects.
However, in early March, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport (DIT) informed them their building would be needed for the construction of loop exits that will connect traffic from Anzac Hwy to the North-South Motorway. The works are expected to begin mid-2025.
“If we’re compulsorily acquired … we’ve been told that we (can) be here until the end of next year,” Koula said. “But, of course, we have to find a replacement property.”
The sisters fear they won’t find another suitable venue that meets the needs of their specialised teaching rooms.
“You’ve got to find the right place with the right floorplan… we’ve got to spend extra money to make it soundproof and secure,” Koula explained.
The government said affected owners will receive support, including case managers and buyer or leasing advocates.
“Landowners and tenants are entitled to seek their own independent advice, with reasonable fees reimbursed,” a DIT spokesperson said.
“Allegro Music has had a bold presence in Glandore for 37 years,” Koula said, noting many former students have gone on to prestigious musical careers.
“We wanted to retire from here. That was the whole point of investing in this property.”
Transport Minister Tom Koutsantonis acknowledged on radio that no one living near a major arterial road can be guaranteed protection from future acquisitions due to the evolving nature of urban development.
Source: The Advertiser.
