A major renewal milestone has been reached in Ipswich as the Nicholas Street Precinct recorded more than two million visits in the year following the opening of its Venue building.
Background on the Redevelopment
The Nicholas Street Precinct in Ipswich continued its long-term renewal with the opening of the Venue building in November 2024. This formed part of an ongoing effort to replace the former derelict mall with a modern mixed-use destination. The redevelopment links historic and cultural landmarks across Ipswich Central and includes new entertainment, dining and community spaces.
Rising Visitation Numbers in Ipswich
In the 12 months following the Venue building’s opening, more than 521,000 visits were recorded at the facility. The wider precinct reached 2.12 million visitations during the same period, averaging nearly 6,000 visits per day. This represented growth of about 30 per cent since the area reopened in 2020.
The precinct now contains 21 operating businesses, with projections indicating an estimated $1.25 billion contribution to the local economy by 2032.
Community Events and Public Use
The precinct has served as a regular venue for community activities, with 30 events delivered across 67 days in the past year. Tulmur Place hosted seasonal programs, cultural celebrations, markets and youth-focused festivals.
One cultural event attracted approximately 6,500 attendees, while public commemorations and family-oriented activities continued to draw steady visitation. The Ipswich Central Library and Ipswich Children’s Library remained key attractions during these periods.
Expanded Dining and Leisure Options
Visitor numbers increased further in late 2025 after new dining venues opened within the precinct. In September, more than 326,000 visits were recorded, reflecting a nine per cent increase from the previous month and a 161 per cent rise compared with the same month in 2024.
The restoration of the heritage-listed Hotel Commonwealth added to this phase of growth.
Design Features and Amenities
The precinct’s features at Tulmur Place include a zero-depth water element, performance stage and a six-by-three metre LED screen. The area offers 1,000 undercover parking spaces and is located near the Ipswich Art Gallery, Top of Town, Riverheart Parklands and the Ipswich Civic Centre. The precinct was designed by Australian architectural firm Buchan Group.
Awards and Industry Recognition
In 2025, Nicholas Street Precinct received multiple awards recognising urban regeneration, social infrastructure development, commercial refurbishment, wayfinding design and hotel redevelopment. Previous awards between 2021 and 2024 acknowledged achievements in urban design, landscape architecture, tourism facilities, innovation and community service delivery.
Looking Ahead
With steady visitation, increasing tenancy activity and regular community participation, the precinct continues to play a key role in Ipswich. Further announcements regarding additional spaces and offerings are expected as development progresses.
Published 17-Nov-2025
