Magnetic attraction open for discussion

A MAGNETIC Island tourism proposal which secured early support has been released for public feedback.

The Townsville Bulletin revealed in late May plans had been lodged with Townsville City Council to develop an 18hole mini golf course and new shopping complex.

The subject site at 122 Sooning St, Nelly Bay, would be transformed from a current home site into a family- friendly tourist attraction if the impact- assessable application was approved.

The 8860sqm site has been earmarked for a four- tenancy shopping centre to complement the mini golf course, while caretaker’s accommodation and a new house would also be built.

The applicant, landowner Melinda Attwell, lodged the application earlier this year for the site, which is about 320m from the Nelly Bay Ferry Terminal.

The proposed mini golf attraction would cater to up to 72 players at a time and open from 8am to 5pm, seven days a week during school holidays.

It was also proposed to open Thursday to Sunday during off- peak times.

The development has been proposed to roll out in stages, starting with the caretaker’s accommodation and demolition of the existing duplex.

The shopping centre and mini golf course would be next built before the new house was constructed.

Early support flowed for the plans with Townsville Enterprise tourism and events director Bridget Woods and local businesses backing it. The application has gone out for public feedback, with submissions open until August 9.