Fairfield Tavern and Dan Murphy’s push ahead after council approval and leases signed

It’s full steam ahead for the new Fairfield Tavern and Dan Murphy’s at Fairfield Central after gaining approval from the council. Read the latest details about the projects.

The future Fairfield Tavern and Dan Murphy’s at Fairfield Central have received development approval from the Townsville City Council. Pictures: Supplied.

Fairfield Central’s hospitality and retail offerings are about to be supercharged after Townsville City Council green lit plans for a local tavern and Dan Murphy’s, and a lease was inked.

It was revealed in late October that development applications had been lodged with the council for the long-awaited additions to the shopping centre.

The shopping centre forms part of the Lancini Property Group’s retail portfolio, with the group confirming that it had signed a lease agreement with the Endeavor Group, pending approval from the Office of Liquor and Gaming.

Australia’s leading retail drinks and hospitality business, Endeavor has more than 250 Dan Murphy’s stores, operates 330 pubs through ALH Hotels, with over 30,000 staff.

The Fairfield Tavern will span approximately 925 sqm and feature a bistro, sports bar, and inviting alfresco seating.

Render of the future Fairfield Tavern, to be built next to Fairfield Central. Picture: Cayas + Ward Architects.

Built adjacent to the tavern, the future Dan Murphy’s store will cover around 1,250 sqm and include a three-car direct to boot drive-through for fast and easy collection of online orders.

The new development will enhance local accessibility with an improved pedestrian access through a recently completed active transport corridor, providing a direct route from the centre to D’Arcy Drive.

Render of the future Dan Murphy's store to be built next to Fairfield Central. Picture: Cayas + Ward Architects.

Additionally, a new “left out” vehicle exit will be created from Fairfield Central to the Bruce Highway (Racecourse Road), improving traffic flow and visitor convenience.

Fairfield Central asset manager Debbie Gelling said the new additions would “significantly enrich our community”, by providing more dining and shopping options and a vibrant social hub encouraging connection and engagement among locals.

Dan Murphy's and a tavern is proposed for Fairfield Shopping Centre.

Endeavour Group’s Queensland property manager Troy Sanders said they were thrilled to become a part of the Fairfield Central community, to enhance local amenities, and provide new employment opportunities.

He anticipated that the project would be completed by late 2026 to early 2027.

“We’re passionate about local – we employ locals, work with local suppliers and curate product ranges to suit the tastes of locals,” Mr Sanders said.

“Guests at the tavern can look forward to the quality service that our ALH Hotels team is known for, and customers will be able to discover from our Dan Murphy’s wide selection of premium wines, craft beer and craft spirits – all backed by our lowest liquor price guarantee.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone to our new venue and store once completed.”

Originally published as Fairfield Tavern and Dan Murphy’s push ahead after council approval and leases signed