Debated sparked after Stockland Shopping Centre renamed to Townsville Shopping Centre

Locals are divided over the new name for the former Stockland Townsville Shopping Centre. Vote in our poll.

Stockland Townsville Shopping Centre's renaming to Townsville Shopping Centre has triggered a mixed reaction from residents. Picture: Supplied.

The recent renaming of Stockland Townsville Shopping Centre to Townsville Shopping Centre has sparked debate in the community, with some calling for its new name to be decided by a competition.

The sale of long-term owner Stockland Corporation’s remaining 50 per cent share to private property fund manager Haben Property Group, officially settled on December 20, paving the way for a new name to be revealed on social media by the popular shopping centre.

Haben national marketing manager Michelle Thomas said their latest purchase brought Haben’s total portfolio to twelve, with four in Queensland, including Caloundra Shopping Centre, Cleveland Central and The Station Oxley.

“As landlord, we have a hands-on approach with a fully integrated in-house management team including onsite centre management, facilities management, leasing and marketing which has enabled us to settle in record time,” Ms Thomas said.

“We are committed to minimising disruptions and maintaining a seamless experience for customers, retailers and service providers.”

The commentary about the name change on the centre’s social media page has ranged from approval to criticism, with several keen for a return of its former name, Nathan Plaza.

Micheal Bentele loved the new name saying whoever thought it deserved a pay rise, saying it was “brilliant” while Lucas Armstrong declared that it was a “horrible name”.

“Should have let the locals name it with a competition. Townsville Central?” Mr Armstrong suggested – a call echoed by Norma Pittman.

Jess Laurance regarded the name choice as “pretty smart.

“Visitors google search, this will always be the preference,” Ms Laurance said.

More feedback on Stockland’s renaming to Townsville Shopping Centre

Dina Crowdenomg: “It’s going down hill if this is as creative as they can get‍️.”

Keith Beller: “Could have just gone back to the 70’s and called it Nathan Plaza again.”

Naomi Lee: “Great name.”

Lauren Beech: “That would make more sense if it was in the city not the suburbs.”

Therese Milliken: “For most Townsville people it will always be Stockland (Stockies).”

Matthew Paulsen: “How very unoriginal.”

Lauren Griggs: “Interesting name change.”

Melissa Swift: “Stockies it was, Stockies it will always be.”

Rachelle Renwick: “Most unoriginal name. This will always be Stockies or Nathan plaza nobody’s going to call it that.”

Allison JZ: “Nathan Plaza would have been better as everyone would know which shopping centre.”

Tess Price: “Great name change … congrats.”

Pauline Merlone: “It will always be Nathan Plaza.”

Heather Cotter: “Nathan Plaza was a good name too.”

Originally published as Debated sparked after Stockland Shopping Centre renamed to Townsville Shopping Centre