Co- Habitat on board bus hub
OFFICE space with a difference will be the first new business to go into the old Townsville Transit Centre in its major revamp.
Co- Habitat Co- Working Space is in the final stages of leasing a space in the South Townsville centre, with fit- out works at the building under way.
The new vision for the centre, bought by developers earlier this year, includes student accommodation, casual dining and office spaces.
The 24- hour access coworking space will offer up a work environment for individuals and businesses on the mezzanine level, with offices, hot desk spaces and a shared meeting room.
Founder and director Josh Roberts works in retail and said a conversation with colleagues about co- working spaces over a lunch break was the start of the business.
“I did some research and thought ‘ that could be something that could benefit Townsville’,” he said.
“I’ve got a few people who seem pretty keen.”
Mr Roberts said co- working spaces often appeal to people in the creative industries or small start- up businesses.
“I think there’s always been a culture of innovation, the trick for Townsville is we haven’t tapped into it really well,” he said. “To see what’s coming through the woodwork is really interesting.”
A winemaker by trade who spent four years travelling the world, Mr Roberts returned to Townsville three years ago.
“My family is here, they’re all involved in small business on some level,” he said. “I don’t think I’ll go back into winemaking because I like living in Townsville.”
Eproperty Consultants leasing agent Steve Whaling said discussions were under way with other potential operators for the transit centre.
“Our vision for the Transit Centre is to deliver a vibrant, mixed- use destination incorporating high quality yet affordable student- style accommodation at the top level, with a funky, serviced office space throughout the mezzanine and market- style food operators on the ground level,” he said.
“We are targeting ‘ outsidethe- box’ operators so patrons will be guaranteed a unique experience and the centre will complement the existing Palmer St dining precinct.
“We feel the location will be desirable to intuitive operators given its proximity to the proposed new stadium complex and ample on- site parking.
“We anticipate activation of these spaces within the next three months.”