Arthur Martin: Building designer reveals what developments he’d to see built in Dalby

A leading Western Downs building designer has revealed what he would like to see introduced to Dalby to increase its liveability and housing.

THE FUTURE: leading Western Downs building designer Arthur Martin has revealed what he would like to see introduced to Dalby to increase its livability and housing. Picture: Sam Turner

A leading Western Downs building designer has revealed what he would like to see introduced to Dalby in the future, including more shopping options and better housing blocks.

Arthur Martin of Martin Building Design retired earlier this year, after 35 successful years shaping southwest Queensland through his formidable craft.

After reflecting on more than 30 years of development in the Western Downs, he believed Dalby could be set for another development boom in the next 5—10 years.

“It’s more focused I feel at the moment, especially since the Toowoomba Bypass came in, which has made Dalby more accessible,” Mr Martin said.

“Dalby has become an energy hub in recent years, so the region’s a lot more diverse, and we’re not as reliant on seasons as we used to be.

“The lifestyle is quite attractive here as well, especially for families.”

Western Downs Regional Council gave the green light for several developments in their COVID-19 recovery package in 2020, which gave birth to projects such as the Tara Lagoon, MyAll107 redevelopment, and the community space at the former site of Mary’s Pub on Cunningham Street.

Dalby Building Designer Arthur Martin has officially retired after 35 years in the business. Picture: Sam Turner

In terms of residential development, Mr Martin would like to see one improvement moving forward into the next ten years.

“There needs to be more choice of the types of land blocks available I feel,” he said.

“Not everybody wants acreage, or small blocks in town.

“It’s very difficult to get 800m2 blocks of land, so if there were more choices available there’d be more opportunities for development.”

He also cited the need to expand the retail sector of Dalby, and acknowledged the positive effect it would have on the economy if it was “ramped up”.

“It’d be great to give individuals more choice, so they can enjoy their browsing, while also walking the streets more,” Mr Martin said.

“I’d like to see the town continue to enhance that way, and improve that liveability.

“Council have done a fantastic job at that over the last few years, especially the walkway along Myall Creek.

“I’d like to see those types of programs continue, as I believe we’re going to see more considerable growth in the next 5—10 years.”