‘Revitalised’ CBD to be gamechanger for Hervey Bay

A Queensland council’s new administration building would “revitalise” the central business district, a community leader has said ahead of a final vote on the $100m project. Vote in our poll:

A final vote is set to be held on the controversial new Hervey Bay administration building when the Fraser Coast council meets in Hervey Bay on Wednesday.

Demolition work at the corner of Main St and Torquay Rd at Pialba has been carried out, despite the final sign-off on the multimillion-dollar redevelopment of the site yet to be given by Fraser Coast councillors.

The vote is set to give the final approval of the $100 million public plaza, library, council administration centre and community spaces.

Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce president Sandra Holebrook has thrown her support behind the project, which she said would have enormous economic benefits for the city.

“We believe that such a development will have significant economic benefits for the community and contribute to the overall growth and prosperity of Hervey Bay and the Fraser Coast region,” she said.

“First and foremost, the creation of a revitalised city centre and the creation of a prominent central business district around the Hervey Bay Library, Resilience Centre and Administration Building would attract businesses, entrepreneurs, and investors.

Hervey Bay Chamber of Commerce president Sandra Holebrook has thrown her support behind the project, which she said would have enormous economic benefits for the city.

“This concentration of commercial activity would provide an opportunity for local businesses to thrive, resulting in increased employment opportunities for the region.

“As a result, the creation of new jobs would stimulate economic growth, reduce unemployment rates, and enhance the overall financial wellbeing of our community.

“Moreover, a well-planned CBD will act as a catalyst for further revitalisation of the greater surrounding area creating further urban development, connection infrastructure and attracting new investment.”

Ms Holebrook said by establishing a CBD around the proposed development site, the area would become a “vibrant hub of activity, attracting people from all walks of life”.

“This increased pedestrian and drive traffic would create a demand for retail, dining, and entertainment establishments, further enhancing the local economy,” she said.

“Additionally, the establishment of a CBD around the Hervey Bay Library, Resilience Centre and Administration Building would have a positive impact on property values in the vicinity.

“Research consistently demonstrates that proximity to commercial centres enhances property values.

“This increase in property values would not only benefit homeowners and property investors but also generate additional council revenue, which could be allocated towards essential public services and infrastructure development.

A vacant building on the corner of Main Street and Torquay Road in Pialba is being demolished ahead of the installation of underground power and the construction of the new Hervey Bay Library and Fraser Coast Regional Council Administration Centre.

“Lastly, the creation of a CBD would increase the city’s reputation as a progressive and vibrant community.

“It would attract attention from neighbouring regions and potentially draw in tourists and visitors, further boosting economic activity through increased tourism spending.

“A thriving CBD would showcase the city’s commitment to growth and development, positioning it as an attractive destination for businesses, residents, and visitors alike.”

It is understood preparations have begun ahead of the vote as delaying could hold the project up for months.

The project had previously been priced at $93m, but it is understood with the rising cost of construction it could reach $120 million.

While Ms Holebrook threw her support behind the project, it had left others in the community less than impressed, with Maryborough MP Bruce Saunders calling it the “Hervey Bay Taj Mahal”.

It would be partially funded with $40 million awarded from the Hinkler Regional Deal, but the council would need to borrow more than $50 million to build the new facilities, a figure Mr Saunders said would blow out.