The restoration of one of Ipswich’s most popular public spaces will start soon after Ipswich City Council signed a contract with Epoca Constructions to revitalise Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve.
Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee Chair Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the news that Colleges Crossing’s full restoration was one step closer would be welcomed by all who love the reserve.
“Colleges Crossing was significantly damaged in the 2022 flood events, and since then council has been working with the community to create a vision for what a more resilient and robust space looks like as we know it flood again in the future,” Mayor Harding said.
“More than 600 residents told us they supported a simpler, back-to-nature design for the reserve which allowed council to proceed with engaging a suitable contractor to begin work on the restoration.
“Engaging with residents on their vision for Colleges Crossing has added time to reconstruction however we will have a more resilient parkland that will cost residents less money.
“I’m pleased that Epoca Construction has now been selected and contracted to bring Colleges Crossing back to its best, for all of our residents to enjoy well into the future.
“The scope of works for this contract includes the demolition and removal of the existing damaged infrastructure, and the installation of new amenities including picnic areas and shelters, toilets, and playground facilities.”
Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee Deputy Chairperson Councillor Paul Tully said Epoca Construction would take possession of the site at the end of January.
“Residents and visitors will start seeing workers on-site at Colleges Crossing in the coming weeks,” Cr Tully said.
“Council will keep the community advised of any closures or changes to access to Colleges Crossing during this process.
“Subject to weather, it’s anticipated the work for this project will be completed this year, with Colleges Crossing handed back to the community in its new form by late 2024.”
Division 4 Councillor and Deputy Mayor Russell Milligan said the new design for Colleges Crossing removed the previous permanent structures and would allow for more flexible use of the site.
“We heard from the community loud and clear that this much-loved site should be accessible, open, and available to all,” Deputy Mayor Milligan said.
“The new, flood-resilient design for Colleges Crossing will ensure everyone can enjoy the Brisbane River, grassy banks and amenities well into the future.”
Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann said council had already completed some rehabilitation work at Colleges Crossing ahead of Epoca Construction taking possession. This includes repairing and reopening the carpark area on the eastern side of Mount Crosby Road, popular with the local fishing community.
“While residents will see changes to access in the coming months, we ask for your patience as we work to bring Colleges Crossing back to life,” Cr Kunzelmann said.
“It’s exciting that Epoca Construction has been selected to lead this work and we will keep residents informed on progress along the way.”
Resident seeking more information on Colleges Crossing can visit Shape Your Ipswich.
I feel this is a waste of money. How many times can you throw money at something that clearly isn’t working.
Its unrealistic to be throwing millions of dollars at a park that will be flooded everytime there is one.More realistic to spend the money in a high bridge so people can get across without having to take detours. There is a lot of places whee money woukld be better spent.