Strand plan cops flak
OPINION is mixed on the merits of a spectacular two-level eatery, bar and unit complex on The Strand – depending on which side of the fence you sit.
A neighbour has “strenuously” objected to the planned eatery and north-facing balconies overlooking their site, while others, like Townsville property industry identity Craig Stack, say the development is a good example of what should be encouraged on The Strand.
These opinions have been given in submissions to Townsville City Council about developer Lachlan Bell Consulting’s proposal for 70 The Strand. The site is at the corner of Kennedy St, two doors from the Watermark.
Brisbane lawyer Luke Filei, whose family trust owns the vacant block next door, says cafes on The Strand should be secondary in nature and “not large-scale higher-order operations”. The venue would create traffic, noise and other issues, also undermining the role of Gregory St as the North Ward Village Precinct, Mr Filei says.
Mr Filei is also concerned about the garbage and service access along their boundary and features that would encroach into the setbacks required from their property. Northfacing balconies would look down, into or across the living room and bedroom windows of their planned development at 71 The Strand, he says.
A resident in a nearby apartment, Justin Fox, says he supports the development because it will help create employment and increase the city’s dining and tourism appeal.
“The only condition I would like to see imposed on the development is a time limit for demolition and construction of the food/dining component,” Mr Fox said.
“There has been too many developments where the original building has been demolished only for no aspects of the development to be completed.”
Mr Stack, head of Knight Frank Townsville, says the development was a very good example of the mix between residential and commercial uses that should be encouraged.
“This is the type of mixed use, good quality development that Townsville has lacked over the past five years and should be encouraged as an example of the level of confidence that some local developers and operators have in investing in our city,” Mr Stack says.
The project is expected to come to the council for a decision later this year or early next year.