Plans to fix transport woes repelling customers from Mackay’s CBD

Mackay’s business leaders from restaurants, real estate, retail, construction and more say what they think will entice shoppers back to the city centre.

Business leaders have proposed solutions to fix transport issues repelling residents from shopping in the Mackay CBD.

They included representatives from restaurants and cafes, real estate, retail, construction, Mackay Regional Council, and more.

Speaking at a think tank to revive the city centre, The Dispensary co-owner Damien Connors said improving transport was a major focus with adding rentable scooters and extra buses two key ideas.

Mr Connors said shuttle buses could transfer people to the Waterfront Priority Development Area, adding electric and even driverless buses were a realistic consideration.

Fellow The Dispensary co-owner Adrian Connors, who was tasked with relaying what visitors might envision in Mackay by 2026, said transport could link the city to regional tourism experiences.

"We're looking for some day trips that leave the city to our islands, our reef, our Eungella, our Cape Hillsborough," Mr Connors said.

He said visitors would also anticipate "activated" cycling and running routes woven throughout the PDA.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the council was working with Transport and Main Roads to modify the "very difficult to cross" pedestrian crossing at the intersection of Sydney and River streets.

"I've got to say TMR has been exceptionally good," Cr Williamson said.

"They've come up with some very large and expensive plans like a big overpass over the river that we're not going to build but at least they've come to the table and (are) helping us solve the problem."

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Cr Williamson said the council would begin a project by the end of the year which would celebrate Mackay having one of Queensland's only blue water rivers, and entice primary investors.

He said the council would connect Fisher's Tail near the River Street boat ramp to the Forgan Bridge - the section to eventually become part of one continuous trail extending from the Mackay Harbour through to Binnington Esplanade.

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