Local philanthropist weighs up future of luxury units

ONE of the region’s most notable philanthropists says he is still deciding whether to proceed with a set of luxury units overlooking the Toowoomba Escarpment.

Proposed apartments at 32 Tourist Rd.

ONE of the region's most notable philanthropists says he is still deciding whether to proceed with a set of luxury units overlooking the Toowoomba Escarpment.

Developer and local identity Clive Armitage was approved by the council this week for a set of eight three-storey, three-bedroom units on Tourist Rd in East Toowoomba.

But despite being given the green light, Mr Armitage said he was currently assessing his options.

He said the onset of COVID-19 had potentially affected the current financial viability of the development.

"I'm still going through the basics with a couple of builders, but I've not come to a decision as to a starting time," he said.

"I would say (the pandemic) has (affected it), the whole business situation has been turned upside down at the moment, (so) I'm not rushing into it.

"I do have some concerns in this environment so I'll wait for things to sort themselves out."

A 3D rendering of the original proposed set of luxury units at 32 Tourist Rd, East Toowoomba. New designs have since been approved.

The modern units, to be built where the old BUPA aged care facility stood, include undercover parking and a high standard of architectural design.

But Mr Armitage said he hadn't ruled out selling the property with the DA attached.

Clive Armitage from Toowoomba. Photo: Regi Varghese

"They are quality apartments with a superb view - you couldn't ask for any better design," he said.

"It's good to have an approved development, so that gives me the opportunity to either proceed or onsell it with the DA."

"I'm assessing my options."

The project was previously estimated at $10-12 million.

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