Concept masterplan for Bell Street precinct in Ipswich unveiled

• Concept masterplanning underway for a health and community precinct at Bell Street, Ipswich.
• Explores potential uses for state-owned assets to meet the needs of the growing Ipswich community including new housing options.
• Focus on expanded community facilities, new housing options, and key worker accommodation.

A concept masterplan is being prepared for the Bell Street Precinct in Ipswich to identify ways to revitalise the area and address key issues in Ipswich, including the need for expanded community facilities, new housing and key worker accommodation to support the fast-growing community.

Being undertaken by Economic Development Queensland (EDQ), working with a number of key stakeholders, this planning aims to build on Ipswich City Council's revitalisation of the Nicholas Street precinct and continue the momentum for development in the Bell Street area.

The Bell Street precinct includes several state-owned assets, such as the former Transit Centre, Health Plaza and Ipswich Train Station.

The concept masterplan will consider these essential services as well as unlocking new uses to benefit the Ipswich region.

Once the concept masterplan has been completed the government will identify the next steps that need to be undertaken to progress the revitalisation of the Bell Street precinct.

Quotes attributable to Minister for State Development and Infrastructure, Grace Grace:

“The concept masterplan for the Bell Street precinct is an exciting first step in exploring how we can meet the growing needs of the Ipswich community, including new housing and community facilities.

“We are working collaboratively with stakeholders to explore a range of possibilities for this important precinct to ensure it can continue to support Ipswich's growth in the years to come.

“This planning reflects our ongoing commitment to creating sustainable, community-focused developments across Queensland.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Ipswich and Assistant Minister for Treasury, Trade and Investment, Jennifer Howard:

“This concept masterplan is a great opportunity to look at how we can enhance the Bell Street precinct with facilities and services that will benefit our community, including housing for key workers, which is in high demand.

“Ipswich is one of Queensland’s fastest growing cities, and this masterplan will look to unlock opportunities in the CBD to respond to that growth.” 

“It’s wonderful to see stakeholders coming together to consider ideas that will build on the terrific work our Council has done in reviving our city heart.”

Media contact: Martin Philip 0407 675 008