Waterfront walkway project a step closer

A WATERFRONT promenade upgrade in Townsville is a step closer to reality.

The Townsville Waterfront Promenade is a plan to revitalise the city’s waterfront and inner- city areas.

Announced by Townsville City Council in 2016, the plan is to improve pedestrian access and aesthetics between the upper reaches of the Ross River to the CBD and beyond to Pallarenda.

The 5.9km promenade will run through some of Townsville’s most iconic spots – connecting from the top of Ross Creek, running through the heart of the CBD, then on to The Strand foreshore, Jezzine Barracks parklands and to Cape Pallarenda, Mundingburra MP Coralee O’Rourke said.

The promenade has now been shortlisted for a share of $ 70 million in the latest round of the Queensland Government’s Building our Regions program.

State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Cameron Dick said round four of the program was focused on projects that would deliver enduring economic outcomes for regional communities.

An overview of the project by consulting firm SMEC Holdings said the design would include new paths and access ramps, boardwalks and platforms over the water, lighting and signage.

The first stage of the project would also involve the reopening of access under George Roberts Bridge, CCTV, resurfacing and extension to existing walkways and an upgrade of existing marine structures.

Townsville MP Scott Stewart said he was pleased to see the promenade project had been shortlisted for funding, along with the Palm Island Retail and Business Precinct.

“These two projects will deliver jobs during construction and lifestyle benefits for the entire community once they are finished,” Mr Stewart said.