First step forward on Central Park upgrade
Date published: 9 October 2018
Townsville City Council’s Planning and Development Committee has recommended the first stage of the Central Park Concept Plan for approval.
The first stage of the project includes building a 4m-wide promenade to link the city and the North Queensland Stadium, improved landscaping, more shade, lighting upgrades, a new playground and pavilion with opportunities for a café or restaurant.
Council’s Planning and Development Committee yesterday recommended the first stage proceed, with construction expected to start next year.
The project is part of Council’s Townsville 2020 masterplan – which provides a clear vision for our city.
Acting Mayor Les Walker said the proposed upgrade of Central Park was an important project in the Townsville 2020 masterplan – with work expected to start within the next few months.
“This area will become a crucial link between the CBD, Palmer Street and the North Queensland Stadium,” Cr Walker said.
“Central Park will become one of Townsville’s most well-used parks because of the upgrade and I’m sure it will be a winner with local families and footy fans.
“Getting going on this first stage of the project is important because we need to ensure the work is completed before the Stadium opens its gates for major events and the 2020 NRL season.”
Cr Walker said Townsville 2020 was a roadmap for the city’s future development.
“Having a clear vision for our community gives the private sector the confidence to invest in our city and to help create job opportunities for local workers,” Cr Walker said.
Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the first stage of the Concept Plan would greatly enhance Central Park.
“We’ve seen a number of improvements in the Central Park area already with the LED Townsville Sign and the new lighting installation under Victoria Bridge,” Cr Greaney said.
“The upgraded promenade, new landscaping and more shade will encourage people to walk between the Stadium Precinct and our dining and entertainment strips such as Palmer St and Flinders St.
“And the new playground and pavilion will provide people with more options to stop and enjoy one of the most pleasant vistas of our city.”
The Concept Plan also considered options for the future uses for the Dean St carpark – including the feasibility of building a 620-space multi-storey carpark, an 800 to 1000-seat Concert Hall and an Indigenous Cultural Precinct on the site.
However, the Concept Plan did not recommend a specific site for any future Concert Hall – with that decision to be determined by Council at a later date or when funding becomes available.
