Bell Street to get a whole new look
27 February 2024
Ipswich Central’s public transport hub on Bell Street is about to get a new lease on life.
As part of the ongoing rejuvenation of the Ipswich Central precinct, Ipswich City Council is set to remove the pedestrian overbridge in Bell Street and update the facades of the buildings to which it was connected.
Built in the late 1970s, the overbridge initially linked the carpark on the top of the Ipswich Health Plaza with the top level of the Metro A building opposite, however, it is no longer in use and key stakeholders decided its removal would enhance the streetscape.
Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said the council is working closely with the Queensland Government, which owns the overpass and surrounding infrastructure, on changes that will activate and revitalise the area.
“Dismantling the overpass will be a complex job and will then be followed by remediation works to the buildings on both sides of the street changing the whole look of the street,” Ms Cooper said.
“There will be limited pedestrian access around the construction area and temporary footpath closures at times. And as always, we appreciate the public’s ongoing patience and co-operation while this project is underway.
“Most importantly, people will continue to have access to Ipswich Train Station for the duration of the project.
"Council is delighted and grateful to the Queensland Government for allocating $500,000 to the estimated overall cost of the removal of the Bell Street overbridge.”
Weather and construction conditions permitting, work crews will begin work in the week commencing 11 March 2024. There will be some preliminary works on site ahead of this date including establishing scaffolding and safety barriers.
The project is expected to take five months to complete with most works being done between 7am and 5pm Monday to Friday each week. Some night works will be required, and these will be advertised ahead of time when scheduled.
“Periodically, Bell Street will be either partially or fully closed to traffic. Measures will be in place including variable message signs and traffic controllers to advise of recommended detours,” Ms Cooper said.
“The first weekend shutdown is scheduled for 5 April at this stage. Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians need to be alert and aware of the changed traffic conditions.”
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