Demolition to signal Bus Hub commencement
Date published: 31 July 2017
Demolition of a former inner-city hardware store to make way for the new CBD Bus Hub will commence on August 6.
The tender was awarded to local company Markwell Group for the demolition of 126-134 Ogden Street at the June council meeting.
The $146,289 tender is the first step towards construction of the facility, set to provide major activation of Ogden Street and the adjoining area.
Deputy Mayor Les Walker said Markwell had a strong history in North Queensland and had outranked its competitors during the tender process in terms of value for money and environmental credentials.
Weighting given to local tenderers had also assisted the group’s bid.
“This facility has been a long time coming and I’m pleased to announce the demolition work is expected to be underway at the end of the month,” Cr Walker said.
“A lot of work has gone into the design process in consultation with local residents and businesses to ensure potential issues are being addressed.
“Council took possession of the site on July 1, paving the way for Markwell to begin demolition in August, once all necessary permits are obtained.
“We have conducted some community consultation to date, and once the design contract tender is awarded at the end of August, extensive consultation will be carried over a three to four month period.”
The bus hub has received $4 million in funding from the Palaszczuk Government and is being project managed by the Townsville City Council.
Tender for the detailed design contract is currently open. Construction of the bus hub is expected to be completed next year.
Local Councillor, Ann-Maree Greaney said a purpose-built bus hub is something the CBD needs to improve the public transport system in the city.
“This will be a good outcome for the city as their will be a dedicated new site that will provide good public transport access to the CBD,” Cr Greaney said.
“Community consultation will be continuing so the community can have their say about the bus hub and get the best results for the city.
The concept designs and information about the project are available on the council’s website at the following link: https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/building-planning-and-projects/council-projects/townsville-city-bus-hub