Site beckons developers Strategic land holding near stadium has enormous potential

CITY leaders have urged developers to snap up one of the most strategic land holdings to emerge in years with the listing for sale of the former South Yards rail yards in Townsville.

And it seems any potential purchaser would have a blank canvass, as leaders say it’s up to investors to decide what they want to do.

It is understood the future of the 17.2ha property, opposite the new stadium, is for mixed use development. In 2016, Cr Les Walker suggested it could be a good site for a wave pool.

Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said what emerged was up to investors.

“We knew the stadium would help activate Townsville’s city centre and welcome anything that would complement this. Ultimately it’s up to private investors what they would like to have on the site,” Mr Stewart said.

Acting Mayor Mark Molachino encouraged interested developers to discuss their plans with the council. Cr Molachino said the site was close to the new stadium, the NQ Cowboys Centre for Excellence, the site of the proposed Doubletree by Hilton hotel, Central Park, the CBD and the Palmer Street entertainment precinct.

“Townsville City Council hopes that the sale of the land attracts a developer who will realise its full potential. The development of the site can be another drawcard for the city and I encourage any developer interested in purchasing the land to come and discuss their ideas with council,” Cr Molachino said.

Townsville Enterprise CEO Patricia O’callaghan said the city needed to build on liveability.

“Whether it’s private investment, such as the Flinders Lane development or government-supported like the new stadium, continued investment into our CBD is critical to support jobs, strengthen liveability, and build visitation to Townsville,” Ms O’callaghan said. “Building upon our current strong pipeline of infrastructure works will boost business confidence and provide our community optimism of a stronger future following the devastating economic impacts of COVID-19.”

Townsville Chamber of Commerce president Michele Falconieri said the city should welcome investment.

“(It would be great if) whoever picks it up has a plan to activate the city, that there are not too many roadblocks to get through so they get it activated as quickly as possible,” Mr Falconieri said.

“We would like to see Townsville become vibrant so developers can develop the site and it can achieve its full potential.”

Colliers International, in conjunction with CBRE, has been appointed to sell the property on behalf of prominent Queensland developer Honeycombes Property Group.