Plans for vacant land in town CBD

AN EMPTY block of land in the heart of Bowen could be transformed in two years with the council set to sell the plot for a new commercial building.

Councillors on September 23 voted to open tenders for the sale of land at 9D Dalrymple Street in Bowen opposite the Grand View Hotel.

The 1.017ha block of land is owned by the council and is vacant.

At the ordinary meeting in Proserpine on Wednesday, councillors voted unanimously to award the contract to the sole tender applicant, Bowen Rail Company.

Bowen Rail Company is owned by mining company Adani.

The company’s application states that the land would be used for the construction of a commercial building.

The building would be used as the central operating office for Bowen Rail Company and as an operational control centre for the new rail line.

Council documents state the project would “promote economic growth by increasing private sector investment and create local employment opportunities”.

A spokesman from Bowen Rail Company said recruitment of about 50 new employees was under way and the new office would help meet the demands of the growing workforce.

“By basing our business in Bowen, we will be part of the local community and will be close to the heart of the Queensland resources industry,” he said.

“We currently have a temporary office facility in Bowen and are looking forward to finding Bowen Rail Company’s permanent office.

“Bowen Rail Company will be here for the long term.”

The building would be constructed in 24 months with the applicants set to pay $710,000 for the land.