Major demolition and refit work on the Venue building, which will be home to the future Hoyts cinema at the top of the Nicholas Street Precinct, is on track with internal works set to begin.
Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee Chairperson Councillor Marnie Doyle said the Venue building – formerly the Birch, Carroll & Coyle cinema – would be an exciting addition to Ipswich’s city centre when complete.
“In coming years, residents will be able to enjoy boutique shopping on Brisbane Street, stroll down to Nicholas Street for a bite to eat, then stop in at the Commonwealth Hotel for a drink, before watching a movie at the new Hoyts Cinema,” Cr Doyle said.
“This month residents will see the Nicholas Street-facing façade and awning on the former Birch, Carroll & Coyle building removed.
“Work will also continue on the clock tower and roof, while service trades move in and the installation of internal lighting begins.
“The refurbishment of this major building will create a remarkable new home for Hoyts Cinema, and a key connection between the Top of Town, Nicholas Street and Tulmur Place.”
A footpath closure on Brisbane Street outside the cinema refurbishment site will continue for some months. The project team is working to reopen sections of the footpath when safe to do so for the community.
Cr Doyle said it was exciting to see more retailers steadily opening their doors in Nicholas Street joining Zambrero, That Dumpling Place, Stellarossa, Gelatissimo and others.
“The ongoing supply chain delays for fit-outs undertaken by tenants mean our next exciting retailers will open in the coming months,” Cr Doyle said.
“Sushi Hyo is tipped to open in April, bringing delicious fresh sushi to the Nicholas Street Precinct, and will be followed by Bun Bun Bao.
“The continued investment from retailers and small businesses is exactly what council wants to see, as Nicholas Street Precinct takes its place at the centre of Ipswich’s entertainment and night-time economy.”
The Nicholas Street Precinct redevelopment is a once-in-a-generation project creating Tulmur Place civic plaza, Ipswich Central Library, the new council administration building and Australia’s first stand-alone dedicated children’s library.