Council is seeking community feedback on the preliminary concept design for d’Arcy Doyle Place as the first part of developing Ipswich’s Cultural Heart.
Economic and Cultural Development Chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said the preliminary concept design is based on the first round of feedback received from the community during engagement in late 2023 to early 2024.
“Ipswich is a city rich with culture and history, and this is an exciting opportunity to enhance connectivity, access and awareness of our city’s cultural assets,” Cr Augustine said.
“The Cultural Heart runs along Nicholas Street from Roderick Street in the south to Nicholas Street Precinct in the north, with d’Arcy Doyle Place our priority for renewal as a key connecting thoroughfare.
“Over recent months, council has been preparing a preliminary concept design that incorporates the features the community told us they would like to see in this important public place.
“I encourage everyone to share their thoughts and be part of the ongoing revitalisation of Ipswich Central.”
Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said Ipswich’s Cultural Heart is the fabric of the city’s arts scene and is a key connector of Ipswich’s heritage and cultural buildings.
“The preliminary concept design for d’Arcy Doyle Place incorporates popular design elements as voted for by the community,” Cr Doyle said.
“This includes a new covered walkway for all-weather access and shade as well as turf terraces for flexible use such as pop up events, seating and play.
“A key element of the preliminary concept design is improving access, pedestrian and cycle connectivity, through the inclusion of the Inner City Cycle Network.”
Division 3 Councillor Andrew Antoniolli said the preliminary concept design would be open for community feedback until 21 August.
“The renewal of d’Arcy Doyle Place is not currently funded beyond the development of this preliminary concept design. However, it is important that we understand the community’s feedback so the project can be considered for future capital budgets by council or receive external funding,” Cr Antoniolli said.
“Bringing d’Arcy Doyle Place up to modern urban design standards is another step towards the revitalisation of our city centre and enhancing Ipswich Central as a place loved by locals and visitors alike.”
Developing the Cultural Heart is identified in council’s Top of Town and Centre Core Place Plans and also aligns with several other council strategies such as iFuture, the Creative Industries Action Plan and iGo Active Transport Plan.
To have your say visit Shapeyouripswich.com.au/ipswich-central/cultural-heart
