Residential reinvention of under-used spaces in Ipswich Central
02 February 2023
Council is calling for landlords, building owners and businesses in Ipswich Central to register interest in exploring the conversion of their unused space above a store, cafe or office into ‘shop top’ residential living areas.
Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee Chairperson Councillor Marnie Doyle said council is seeking expressions of interest (EOI) from building owners who want to hear more about reinventing unused spaces.
“As our city continues to be one of the state’s fastest growing cities, there are opportunities to develop unused and under-used floor space throughout Ipswich Central and Top of Town,” Cr Doyle said.
“An opportunity to continue revitalising Ipswich Central and offer unique, contemporary housing options could be sitting in the unused space above your business or unused areas of your building.”
“The benefits to building owners include new income opportunities and increase in property values, while the community could expect less suburban sprawl as well as a safer and more accessible Ipswich Central area.”
Councillor Doyle said council is calling for feedback to consider how it can best encourage and support investment in residential accommodation on upper floors of appropriate buildings in Ipswich Central.
“We are also interested in understanding barriers for building owners and landlords that may existing in making investments in these spaces,” Cr Doyle said.
“Vibrant urban economies are key attractors in cities across Australia and the world, and to have a sustainable economy you need to have people living, working and playing in, as well as commuting to city centres.
“Shop top living may enhance commercial activity in Ipswich Central by improving residential housing and tourist accommodation options, adding to Ipswich’s cultural vibrancy and economic prosperity.”
Councillor Doyle said shop top living is increasingly becoming a viable and desirable approach to meet residential and accommodation needs of growing cities, such as in the City of Launceston.
“As chair of the council’s Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee, I am aware of the challenges cities face as they change and grow, and the tension between providing new opportunities for people to live, work and play while still preserving that city’s heritage,” Cr Doyle said.
“Ipswich has some of Queensland’s most grand and special heritage buildings and, and this program could help safeguard the interiors of these buildings while also offering contemporary inner-city living for our growing community.”
If you are an owner of an Ipswich Central business, building or site and are interested in hearing more about shop top living, submit an EOI by 24 March 2023 through Shape Your Ipswich.