DEVELOPERS’ CASH SPLASH

Millions being spent in Toowoomba on key projects, properties

TWO of Toowoomba’s most prominent developers have invested heavily in the city’s future growth, spending millions acquiring and developing a number of key sites. Notable ground-mover Barry Bernoth and major investor Keith Beer have announced significant projects or purchases this week, which both men said was a show of faith in Toowoomba’s potential growth through tough economic times. While Mr Bernoth has submitted plans to the council for a new CBD residential tower, Mr Beer announced the recent purchase of several investment properties across Toowoomba, totalling more than $4 million.

THE developer behind a proposed set of residential units just metres from Grand Central Shopping Centre says the CBD is ready for more inner-city living.

Barry Bernoth has submitted plans for a five-storey, 14-unit apartment block on Mylne St to the council.

According to the planning report, the initial proposal would include eight threebedroom units, five two-bedroom units, a one-bedroom apartment and a communal roof deck and garden.

“The proposal represents a high quality residential development which will enhance the Mylne St streetscape,” it said.

“Furthermore, the site is well-located within walking distance to a variety of public transport options, established and emerging higher order activity centres, community/recreational facilities and social infrastructure.’’

While acknowledging it was early days with the project and the exact plan could still change, Mr Bernoth said getting more people living in the CBD would improve business activity.

“We are looking forward to working with the council to make it a building that is desirable for people to live in the Toowoomba CBD,” he said.

It comes more than a year after Mr Bernoth submitted plans for an 11-storey parking and residential tower on Bell

St in the Toowoomba CBD.

The latest submission included reports into stormwater and waste management.

The council has yet to respond with a request for further information.

Picture: Craig van Heerden IN THE WORKS: Barry Bernoth’s planned new residential tower in the CBD, submitted to the council this week.

Picture: VHD Studio PROPOSED: Plans for a new residential unit development submitted to the Toowoomba Regional Council by Barry Bernoth.