Toowoomba CBD’s newest laneway to open within months

THE Toowoomba CBD’s newest laneway is expected to be opened before the end of the year, with council making significant progress on the project.

Construction progress walkway between Margaret and Annand Streets.

THE Toowoomba CBD's newest laneway is expected to be opened before the end of the year, with council making significant progress on the project.

Once completed, Carnival Lane will connect Margaret St shops with parking and restaurants on Annand St.

The laneway is being created from the demolition of 174 Margaret St, which was bought by the council several years ago.

TRC environment and community chair Cr James O'Shea said the roof and walls had already been removed from the old building.

"Over the past two months the council dismantled and removed the existing roof and walls and has installed structural steel portal frames to support neighbouring properties," he said.

"The next stage will include dismantling the scaffold facing Margaret St, installing in-ground plumbing and drainage, installing in-ground electrical conduits and pouring the concrete slab for the laneway."

Cr O'Shea said the laneway, named after the annual Carnival of Flowers, would be a welcome addition to the CBD.

Margaret Street Laneway, view from Margaret Street (artist's impression)

"This is an exciting project in the Toowoomba CBD which will create a new laneway and multifunctional space," he said.

"Carnival Lane will be a safe, vibrant and welcoming connection and community meeting place for workers, shoppers and visitors to the city.

"It will provide green space, public art, equitable access for people of all abilities, weather protection and a place for community events.

"This project is part of the council's laneway strategy for the CBD and the overarching Toowoomba City Centre Masterplan."