AS the centrepiece of the Ipswich CBD’s revitalisation, the Nicholas Street Precinct transformation has been recognised as an example of excellent urban design, taking out the prestigious Minister’s Award for Urban Design and the Movement and Place Award 2024.
The awards recognise urban design projects of the highest quality across Queensland, highlighting the importance of quality design in shaping communities and the integration of transport and movement to support social and economic outcomes.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the award was further recognition of Council’s efforts to bring a beating heart back to the city centre.
“The Nicholas Street Precinct is a once-in-a-generation redevelopment of our city centre,” Cr Harding said.
“As many city centres around the state are struggling to return to the vibrant hubs they were post the Covid pandemic, we are ahead of the curve with our reinvented city centre that is attracting more businesses and visitors every month.”
With the Nicholas Street Precinct nearing completion this year, Cr Harding said the hub was growing in popularity, with over 1.2 million visitations a year, and has fast established itself as a dining, cultural and entertainment destination in the heart of Ipswich.”
Economic and Cultural Development Committee chairperson Councillor Pye Augustine said Council was thrilled to be recognised for the design of the precinct.
“These awards reinforce how much meticulous planning went into bringing the Nicholas Street Precinct to life, from a rundown mall to a world-class civic heart,” Cr Augustine said.
“Nicholas Street Precinct has provided an inclusive space for Ipswich residents, a drawcard for visitors and has helped meet the needs of our rapidly growing community.”
Since the redevelopment began, 18 businesses have opened their doors in the precinct, with more on the way.
HOYTS Cinemas and General Public “eatertainery” will join the precinct later this year, with the newly renovated Hotel Commonwealth also set to open its doors.
The awards are the latest accolades for the Nicholas Street Precinct, which was also recognised in 2022 in the Landscape Architecture Awards for Landscape Planning, and in 2021 as Queensland’s top public space.
The precinct is also home to Australia’s first standalone children’s library, which has won awards for innovation.
