Toowoomba Chamber calls for dedicated CBD renewal councillor

An advisory committee for Toowoomba’s CBD is calling on Toowoomba Regional Council to appoint a specific councillor to lead the area’s renewal

A Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce advisory committee is calling on Toowoomba Regional Council to create a portfolio dedicated to the renewal of the city CBD.

The CBD Revitalisation Advisory Committee, an initiative of the chamber, was formed in response to the concerns of CBD businesses, landowners and residents to advocate for the renewal of the area.

Toowoomba Chamber of Commerce vice president Sam Wright said the CBD renewal requires a multi-faceted approach from each of the council’s existing portfolios.

“Accordingly, the CBD-RAC considers a critical component to the solution for the CBD is for it to be given its own council portfolio,” Mr Wright said.

“This would be a progressive step forward, providing a clear line of sight between policy development and implementation, facilitating a co-ordinated whole-of-council approach, and creating a real focus on delivering an outcome for this jewel of Toowoomba.

“I imagine every councillor would love to be the portfolio leader for the CBD to deliver a legacy for the Toowoomba community for many generations to come.”

Progress of Russell Street revamp as Toowoomba Regional Council undertakes work to revitalise the historic street. Picture: Kevin Farmer

Mr Wright said the CDB-RAC undertook detailed consultation with a range of businesses including retail, industry, hospitality, accommodation and professional services to understand the critical challenges facing CBD businesses.

“There were common themes from our engagement with businesses which included the need to increase foot traffic in the CBD, promoting the CBD as a destination and public assets investment and renewal,” he said.

“This is all about investing in a rich experience in the CBD, rebranding the CBD as the home of food, art, culture and boutique retail supported by day-to-day services.

“We call on our local government to commit to further investment in public assets like carparking, laneways, legacy infrastructure projects and creating better public and active transport connections to the CBD as part of the overall CBD renewal.”