A former quarry site has the potential to be transformed in to a world-class tourism attraction.
These are the bold ambitions mixed with the rich traditions that Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) Mayor Paul Antonio would like to see for the Bridge Street Quarry.
“We have a tremendous opportunity to do something spectacular in the old quarry site which would bring thousands of visitors to the Toowoomba Region every year,” Mayor Antonio said.
“While we may still be in the very early stages of this long-term project, you only have to look at an area like Queens Park to appreciate how important it us for to do the groundwork now.
“Our early pioneers had the foresight and vision to set aside this piece of land in Queens Park and after many years of continued investment by Council and other levels of government, we now have a world-class park. This is the same opportunity we have with the quarry gardens.
“We’ve seen a number of examples across the world at how successful quarry garden projects can be, but it’s important we lay the proper foundation to do this.
“To make sure we get it right and take the views of the community into account, Council will form a Bridge Street Quarry Development Advisory Committee.
“The establishment of an Advisory Committee will support implementation of the project by providing advice to Council on matters affecting the rehabilitation and the initial redevelopment of the site.”
If the Terms of Reference for the Bridge Street Quarry Development Advisory Committee are approved at the Ordinary Meeting of Council next week (21 July) the functions of the committee will be to:
- To advise Council on the major principles and strategic direction for the development of the site, having consideration to and general alignment with the Bridge Street Quarry Redevelopment Feasibility Study 2018 (KPMG)
- To advise and make recommendations to Council on development, governance and management options for the Bridge Street Quarry site, including issues, benefits and opportunities of different options
- To advise Council on funding, investment, and partnership opportunities directly aligned with the redevelopment of the site including Council, other government, private and philanthropic sources
- To advise and assist Council to advance the existing technical work previously undertaken, including the Bridge Street Quarry Redevelopment Feasibility Study 2018 (KPMG)
- To investigate, and provide information and advice to Council on market opportunities, including tourism, to inform a future commercial investment strategy.
The Bridge Street Quarry Development Advisory Committee will consist of up to 15 members, plus up to three additional external advisors.
