Waltons wins top gong
CBD hub is praised for its design
WALTON Stores has been praised for its urban renewal and connectivity to the CBD.
The precinct has taken home the inaugural CEO Award at the 2018 Urban Development Institute of Australia Mitchell Brandtman Awards for Excellence recently held in Brisbane.
It is the second award for the bustling CBD hub.
The first award was the 2017 Australian Institute of Architects Regional Project of the Year Award for Darling Downs and West Moreton.
A collaboration between Aspect Architects and Project Managers and Newlands Group, the design has been praised for the re-use of historic buildings and the way new and old is blended to create a relaxed social setting.
Aspect director Wade Eiser said Walton Stores marked the beginning of a cultural transformation in the Toowoomba CBD.
“We wanted to blend heritage with innovation and work with convenience, along with being a family friendly option so families can come, relax and enjoy an array of casual dining options in comfort,” he said.
“It is a historic regeneration of a unique area of the CBD with exceptional connections into the city heart.
“It feels amazing to be recognised at a state level for the hard work the group have undertaken to help transform the CBD and re-shape the way people live within our city.
“The project was a great collaboration of like-minded people and professionals that wanted to make a positive difference in Toowoomba.”
Newlands Group CEO and Walton Stores director Barry O’Sullivan said the success of Walton Stores was thanks to the joint effort between the teams.
“Walton Stores is a beautiful hub combining heritage assets with modern comfort, “he said.
“I’m proud of everyone who has worked on this project and I’m just happy to see the many families who come through and get enjoyment out of this space.”