A first class health precinct in Ipswich’s CBD is taking shape, as construction on the development linking Bell and East streets powers ahead.
The Helmsman Invest development, dubbed 11 Bell & 15 East, will see existing Bell Street tenant Friendly Care Pharmacy relocate to the East Street side of the property along with a new Myhealth Medical Centre, effectively creating a revitalised health hub in the heart of the city’s CBD.
Mayor Teresa Harding recently toured the construction site alongside Ipswich Chamber of Commerce and Industry chief executive officer Phillip Bell and Helmsman Invest managing director Bernard McKeering.
Mayor Harding said the 11 Bell & 15 East development will be a major boost for the city.
“This is a significant private investment that will help transform the Ipswich CBD for the better,” Mayor Harding said.
“Not only is it improving our city’s current health care facilities, it will likely help attract more services to the area as demand for health care and social assistance continues to expand in Ipswich.
“As we continue to wade through unchartered territory with the coronavirus pandemic, it’s important to keep looking to the future and working towards getting Ipswich back open for business.
“Council is actively working with the local business community to attract more quality businesses to the Ipswich CBD.”
The development has dual street frontage and a large car park for staff and customers, as well as close proximity to public transport and other health services.
Artist’s impression of the Bell Street facade.
Artist’s impression of the East Street entrance to the building, including the new car park.
On top of the new medical centre and pharmacy, the $6 million development will include an additional 2,200 square metres of fully refurbished space available for lease.
Mr McKeering envisages this space will be used for other health services or office accommodation.
“We are hopeful that we get interest from both the private sector and state and federal governments,” he said.
“Employment services and education is another target tenant group we would welcome.
“When we saw the new Ipswich Central plan, we were keen to acquire something nearby and be a part of this evolving CBD precinct which is going to be a hive of activity over the coming years with the beautifully refurbished Nicholas Street, new council library, new council building, eats precinct and new retail offerings.”
Mayor Harding and Mr McKeering on the East Street side of the development.
Mr Bell said the investment was fantastic for Ipswich.
“This precinct brings a significant investment to our CBD and will bring vibrancy and energy to Bell Street which will be truly transformational,” Mr Bell said.
“I welcome Helmsman Invest’s commercial confidence in the future of our city and look forward to celebrating the success of this outstanding project in the future.”
The 11 Bell & 15 East project is expected to be completed by October 2020.
