Plan for top attraction
Mountain view to enhance city
MOUNT Louisa could have new walking tracks, viewing platforms and barbecue areas as part of a plan to boost public access to the natural attraction.
Townsville City Council has appointed RPS Australia East to produce a concept plan for Mount Louisa that will improve public access and allow for new recreational and commercial uses.
It is hoped the development will enable more locals and visitors to experience the unrivalled views of the city and coast from Mount Louisa’s prominent ridge line, which could one day rival Townsville’s Castle Hill in popularity.
The concept was a key part of the Townsville 2020 masterplan to develop natural landscapes and improve access to recreational facilities.
Mayor Jenny Hill said the concept plan would “unlock” Mount Louisa’s potential by highlighting its 360- degree vistas of Townsville.
“My team and I wanted to make sure we provide the best public spaces and recreation facilities right across Townsville,” she said.
“Thousands of residents living near Mount Louisa will benefit from improved access to new recreational facilities, which could include walking tracks, viewing platforms and barbecue areas.”
Cr Hill said Mount Louisa would become one of the “most iconic” spaces in Townsville as a result of the plan. “And I’m sure it will become a big hit on social media too,” she said.
Deputy Mayor and Planning and Development Committee Chair Les Walker said council was committed to providing new recreational facilities in suburban areas.
“The plan will focus on sport and recreation activities over the short, medium and long- term and will be delivered through a staged approach,” he said. “Mount Louisa is one of the highest points in Townsville and this plan will ensure we take advantage of the amazing views back across our city and coastline.”
The concept plan, expected to be completed in October, would also consider the existence of sites of Aboriginal cultural heritage within the area.
Community consultation will occur during the development of the concept plan and council will update the community on the project’s progress on the Townsville 2020 website.
THOUSANDS OF RESIDENTS LIVING NEAR MOUNT LOUISA WILL BENEFIT FROM IMPROVED ACCESS TO NEW RECREATIONAL FACILITIES, WHICH COULD INCLUDE WALKING TRACKS, VIEWING PLATFORMS AND BARBECUE AREAS MAYOR JENNY HILL