Nicholas Street revitalisation boosted by ‘Venue’ cinema development

Ipswich’s CBD revitalisation project has continued in full swing with the beginning of the ‘Venue’ building redevelopment. SEE WHAT’S PLANNED

Artists impression of the Venue development

A long-awaited council project has finally begun in Ipswich’s bustling Nicholas Street precinct, as part of the Ipswich City Council’s ongoing efforts to reignite the city’s dwindling night-life.

The redevelopment of the ‘Venue’ building, which was formerly the site of Birch Carroll and Coyle and Harvey Norman, is set to be completed later this year.

‘Venue’ will be home to a brand new Hoyts cinema as well as several other entertainment and commercial spaces, in line with efforts to drastically improve the liveliness of the city centre.

Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee Chairperson Councillor Marnie Doyle says the project was a key part of plans to ‘reignite’ the CBD.

Nicholas Street Precinct revitalisation map

“Bringing the entertainment component of Nicholas Street to life, which we know is critical to the success of both new tenants in Nicholas Street as well as existing small businesses throughout our CBD, and reigniting our night time economy which has been missing for many years,” she said.

Demolition works are currently underway inside the existing building and a portion of the Brisbane Street were closed last week and disruptions are expected on Ellenborough Street throughout the year.

“We’re excited about the benefits this major project will have for Ipswich Central, injecting a much needed economic boost for local businesses and property owners who have suffered for many years as the CBD declined, and supporting the Nicholas Street redevelopments' new tenants,” Councillor Doyle said.

In a Facebook post from Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, she said pedestrians could expect the disruptions the footpath to continue for up to six months, but that the council hoped to reopen sections as it was safe to do so.

Nicholas Street has undergone a $250 million revitalisation and in the last 12 months has seen the addition of several major businesses, including Gelatissimo, That Dumpling Place and Stellarossa coffee.