The go ahead has been given for development of a six-storey commercial building on the corner of Limestone and Ellenborough streets in the Ipswich CBD.
The block is near the Ipswich courthouse and currently used by Autobarn and a tattoo parlour.
Developers plan to demolish the existing building to redevelop the site.
The new office space is expected to be tailored for legal and medical services to support the courthouse and nearby Ipswich Hospital.
The building will have basement and ground level car parking, a restaurant and small-scale shop, plus five levels of office space.
In lodging the application last August, the developer argued that a new, modern commercial building on the site would allow for “the city centre to continue developing into the main administrative and cultural centre for the Western Corridor of South-East Queensland”.
“It aims to complement the existing professional services, courthouse and business uses in the vicinity and will increase the number of job opportunities for Ipswich as a Regional Activity Centre,” the application noted.
The approved development exceeds the height limit for the site, which is three storeys, however the site is considered a ‘landmark’ site due to its location.
The design reflects the prominent location, and takes design cues from nearby significant heritage buildings such as the restored Technical College across the road at 88 Limestone Street.
In assessing the application, council took into consideration the nearby courthouse development, which is seven storeys, and significant view corridors through the location.
A townscape analysis and supporting architecture report concluded the position and design of the building will not impede any of the critical view corridors throughout the city, including views to Denmark Hill, the clock tower or the view along Mary Street to the CBD.
Once complete, vehicles will access the site by the use of existing access on Ellenborough Street, and a new left in/left out access driveway to Limestone Street, which has been located as far as possible from the intersection with Ellenborough Street.
The development is expected to create short term employment opportunities during construction as well as long term jobs through the use of the commercial space.
The full approval is available at ipswichplanning.com.au
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