TSBE 2017/2018 Infrastructure Priority List
TSBE is an independent, member-driven, advocacy organisation focused on linking business with opportunity to ensure the region enjoys sustainable economic growth into the future. Economic growth in Toowoomba Region sits at about 3.5% a year, outpacing the state average of 3.1%. The region also enjoys a Gross Regional Product of about $10 billion, a growing population tipped to surpass 205,000 by 2036.
As a united voice for the region, TSBE works with government as well as the private sector to pursue the infrastructure priorities critical to development, positioning the region to attract greater investment in its stable and diverse economy. With the Queensland election set for November 25, the following is TSBE’s Infrastructure Priorities.
1. Convention Centre and Five Star Hotel
Cost: $250,000 feasibility study, $100 million project
As a regional capital for South West Queensland and Northern NSW, Toowoomba attracts both the tourism and business markets to the region. Rapidly growing visitor numbers are driving the need for large event facilities and a 5-star hotel. Without a 1000-person capacity convention centre and accompanying 5-star hotel, the region will continue to be overlooked for major conferences and events. A $250,000 feasibility study will explore site options as well as commercial and government funding ahead of a Market Led Proposal (MLP). Toowoomba’s convention centre would be modelled on the Darwin Convention Centre, and is anticipated to bring one million visitors a year to the region. A feasibility study was undertaken by Toowoomba Regional Council in 2014.
2. Motor Sports Facility
Cost: $40 million
As a highly desirable tourism asset, a Motor Sports Facility would bring increased visitor numbers to the region. This facility will be built to international standards and would provide the infrastructure to create motor sport events and attract major events from interstate and overseas. A suitable site has already been identified, a business case has been prepared and an MOU has been signed with the V8 Supercars to hold an event as soon as construction is complete. There is significant community support for this project that includes a 4.35km FIA Category 2 Standard track, as well as driver training academy for light and heavy vehicles. The facility will also offer campgrounds for up to 30,000 patrons making it an ideal venue for large outdoor events.
3. Mountain Biking and Walking Trails
Cost: $250,000 feasibility study, $5 million for project
The Range Escarpment in Toowoomba is one of the region’s best natural features. Current infrastructure has largely been built by volunteers and Council. The escarpment has hosted national and international biking events. There is evidence around the world that natural trails are becoming increasingly important from a domestic tourism perspective and this development could form a network of trails that will allow visitors to increase the number of nights they stay in the region, a key economic development objective. Funding is being sought to construct and develop signage, create an App, and additional links to connect existing trails.
4. Overpass into Brisbane West Wellcamp Airport
Cost: $16 million
The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing (TSRC), currently under construction, has approximately 4.5km of road frontage along the eastern side of Wellcamp Airport and Wellcamp Business Park. A direct connection of TSRC to Wellcamp Airport and the business park is critical to ensuring that the full regional economic benefits can be achieved with these developments. Benefits would include productivity and efficiency gains, future cost reductions and decongestion of future Toowoomba Enterprise Hub traffic. Wagners will fund the private infrastructure portion, which is estimated to be $8million.
State funding recently pledged: Quarry Gardens
Feasibility Study approved: $250,000
A long-term dream for Toowoomba has been to convert the disused Bridge Street Quarry into a garden precinct and tourism hotspot. The project aligns perfectly with Toowoomba’s international reputation as the Garden City and the State Government recently approved a $250,000 feasibility study into the gardens, matched by the LNP. The Quarry Gardens is set to be based on successful international projects such as the Butchart Gardens in Canada and Whangarei Quarry Gardens in New Zealand and will provide much-needed tourism infrastructure to boost the sector.
5. Federal Govt: Nathan Dam and Pipelines
Cost: $1.4 billion
The increasing demand for water for agriculture, coal mining, and power generation in the Surat Basin and adjacent areas could be met with water from the proposed Nathan Dam at Wandoan. With designs already in place and 136ML/day capacity to deliver water to Chinchilla and Dalby, the Nathan Dam would encourage economic and population growth in regional towns, Queensland’s population growth is expected to put increased strain on the State’s water supply and the development of the Nathan Dam would help ensure the region’s water security. While this is a project that requires federal funding, support from the State Government will also be needed.
6. Local Govt: Redevelopment or Picnic Point/Long-Term Masterplan
Cost: $100 million
Picnic Point is a principle tourist attraction for Toowoomba and the current facilities are outdated and in need of redevelopment under a long-term strategic plan. Upgrading Picnic Point will increase activities and accommodation in the area and will enhance the image of Toowoomba to the tourism market. Improved facilities and upgrades to the park will also encourage local residents to engage in a healthy lifestyle.
7. Local Govt: CBD Parking
Cost: $30 million
There is a strong need to initiate a CBD parking plan, as businesses in Toowoomba’s CBD say they are struggling to attract customers due to the lack of available parking and reduced foot traffic. Increasing parking will drive business turnover, reduce suburban office development and increase office demand within the CBD.
