The revitalisation of Bell Street in Ipswich Central has been added to Ipswich City Council’s advocacy priorities named as a Locally Significant Project.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said this would strengthen council’s ability to actively advocate to the State Government for greater investment and attention to the condition of assets owned by the State along Bell Street.
“The Ipswich Train Station, Transit Centre, Health Plaza, overhead walkway and awning are all in desperate need of renovation and upgrades and we would like for the State Government to expedite plans to address this,” Mayor Harding said.
“Council has invested in revitalising our city’s heart, transforming the Nicholas Street Precinct into a world-class space for recreation, dining and entertainment and it is essential we have an inviting and safe entry from public transport into Ipswich Central.
“The community have come together voluntarily to get something done with Ipswich Central Partnership activating Bell Street with a series of working bees, public art and engagement sessions, and I applaud their efforts.
“It is past time this area was cleaned up for good and we will continue to advocate for economic prosperity and social inclusion by fixing Bell Street.”
Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee Chairperson and Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said council would now strengthen advocacy to the State Government to push for Bell Street to be upgraded and enhanced.
“The Ipswich community needs to know what the State Government plans for this key street in Ipswich’s city centre,” Cr Doyle said.
“Recognising Bell Street as a Locally Significant Project gives not just council but our local State members more options to advocate for much-needed change.
“Activating Bell Street is a key target for council to ensure our city heart continues to transform into a modern, economic and cultural powerhouse for all residents and visitors.”
Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner said the Ipswich community had already begun to take matters into their own hands with public art and working bees, and residents needed to hear from the State what is planned for local assets.
“Council will advocate strongly for Bell Street to be given the attention and funding it deserves, to become an attractive, welcoming gateway from the train station into Ipswich’s city heart,” Cr Fechner said.
“Upgrading, demolishing or renovating these State assets will give our city greater amenity, economic investment and cultural attraction, and it needs to start now.”
For more information about Ipswich City Council’s efforts to revitalise Ipswich Central, visit Ipswichcentral.com.au
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