Toowoomba CBD social housing project by BHC approved by Qld government after council carpark sale

A six-storey affordable and social housing project has been approved in Toowoomba’s CBD — and initial works start in just a few days.

A highly-anticipated social and affordable housing project in Toowoomba’s CBD can now move ahead after it got the green light from the Queensland government.

Affordable housing developer BHC (formerly Brisbane Housing Company) has received its approval for a 75-unit build-to-rent project on Station St that places community housing close to essential services and public transport.

The development, which has been in the works since 2022, will turn part of a council carpark into a blend of social, rent-controlled and private housing across at least six storeys.

The project was signed off by state Development Minister and Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, having been declared a “state facilitated development” by the previous Labor government.

“This project will enhance Toowoomba’s housing diversity and leverage the site’s strategic location to the city centre,” Mr Bleijie said.

Concept art for Brisbane Housing Company's 75-unit social and affordable housing complex planned for Station Street in Toowoomba City.

“We said we would work with local governments to streamline approvals and this project between the Crisafulli government and Toowoomba Regional Council is a solid example of that.

“This project will unlock more affordable and social housing in the Toowoomba region and it’s another step in the right direction to activate an increased supply of housing options for Queenslanders.

“The government will ensure we’re maximising opportunities and facilitating responsible growth with new housing in Toowoomba.”

Toowoomba North MP Trevor Watts welcomed the introduction of more housing in the CBD.

“This build-to-rent project is a welcome step toward providing more secure, affordable housing options in our community,” he said.

“The Toowoomba CBD is the ideal location for this type of development, as it’s close to essential services, shops, and public transport.”

Social and affordable housing developer BHC has been approved by the state government for a 75-unit development on Station Street in Toowoomba City. A layout of the car parks being removed.

The housing development will remove a significant number of public car parks from the Station St lot, with the Toowoomba Regional Council voting to sell off the land to facilitate it.

Councillor Trevor Manteufel said the car park was usually at only 50 per cent capacity during weekdays.

“We don’t expect the downsizing of the car park to have a significant effect on the community,” he said.

“However, we do know residents have been asking for more housing options for quite some time.

“Council is pleased to be contributing towards providing affordable housing options for our community.

“We are delighted to have the chance to alleviate some of the pressure residents are feeling because of the cost-of-living crisis.”

Mr Manteufel said the council would start removing the car parks and shifting the entrance from March 1.