New Direct Bus Route to Connect Springfield and Ipswich

Queensland has announced a new direct bus route linking Springfield to Ipswich CBD as part of a $70 million investment in bus network upgrades across the state.



This development was unveiled in the state Budget released on Tuesday, aimed at improving public transportation options and reducing travel times for residents.

Currently, Springfield residents face a lengthy journey of about an hour to reach Ipswich Central via public transport, requiring a transfer and often taking longer than travelling to Brisbane City. The new route will run from Springfield through Redbank Plains to Ipswich, significantly cutting travel time and improving connectivity between the two areas.

This initiative is part of a broader Bus Services Investment Program, which seeks to enhance community travel options through funding for new bus services and infrastructure. The program will be implemented over three years and includes several other improvements:

  1. New services to growth areas including Redbank Plains, Collingwood Park, Augustine Heights, Bellbird Park, Springfield, Deebing Heights, and Karalee.
  2. Improved service connectivity to the Ripley Valley Priority Development Area.
  3. Extension of existing routes in areas north and south of Ipswich, Springfield Lakes, Camira, and Spring Mountain.
  4. Enhanced connectivity to rail services and Ipswich Hospital.

Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick said, “We are doing what matters for the Logan and Ipswich communities by making bus links to their communities stronger with more services and more affordable with our 50c fares”.



    Transport and Main Roads Minister Bart Mellish expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential impact. “These initiatives will hopefully attract more and more people to public transport so they can experience the benefits, which in turn eases congestion on our roads,” Mellish said.

    Published 14-June-2024

    Council Approved Hundreds of Homes as Ipswich’s Population Grew 27 % Last Quarter

    Ipswich City Council approved 1,033 homes over the September quarter as the city’s population grew 27 per cent to 243,588, latest report says.



    “As Queensland’s fastest growing city, Ipswich continues to lead the charge in catering for the south-east’s growing population by ensuring we have more land coming to market,” Mayor Harding said about the total lot approvals during the past quarter which saw an increase of 1,145 per cent or 1,033 lots. 

    The data is included in the Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Quarterly Report from 1 July to 30 September 2022 which provides a glimpse into the development activity and population growth across Ipswich. 

    “That growth from the previous quarter is largely because we had two large housing estates approved this quarter with 799 lots for an estate in Spring Mountain and 184 lots for an estate in Ripley.

    “While Brisbane will run out of available land to build new homes in less than three years, Ipswich goes from strength to strength with 7.3 years’ worth of approved lots – land that is ready to go to market for housing.

    “Council continues to work with all levels of government to secure the critical funding needed to deliver community and transport infrastructure to support our rapidly growing population.”

     Ipswich City Council Addresses Growing Population With Hundreds of Lot Approvals Over the September Quarter
    Photo credit:  Ipswich First / ipswichfirst.com.au

    According to Growth, Infrastructure and Waste Committee Deputy Chairperson Councillor Paul Tully, the quarterly report also shows that the city grew to an additional 1,218 residents that moved to the city during the period. That equates to a 27 per cent rise compared to the June quarter bringing Ipswich’s population to 243,588.

    Most of those residents, Cr Tully said, are moving to the suburbs of Ripley, Spring Mountain, Redbank Plains, South Ripley and Springfield. These are also the top five suburbs for new dwellings and additional population.

    “New dwellings overall increased 35 per cent, lots created increased 7 per cent, while development applications also went up by 7 per cent in the September quarter.”



    Other highlights of the quarterly report card include: 

    • 415 new dwellings (35 per cent increase from June  2022)
    • 88,653 total dwellings
    • 8.4km of additional pathways and bikeways
    • 4.45km of additional local roads
    • 1.32ha of additional local parks
    • 32 new food businesses started up
    • Almost 30,000 animal registrations
    • 8.4km of additional pathways and bikeways created
    • 4,175 customer service requests lodged with the council
    • More than 2,400 parking infringements

    You can read the full Planning and Regulatory Services Quarterly Report here.

    Proposal for New Landfill at Wanless Recycling Park Rejected

    A proposed landfill at Wanless Recycling Park, part of a controversial $50-million development proposal at Ebenezer, has been nixed.

    Wanless Waste Management proposed to establish a landfill and waste transfer and recycling facility that would process up to a million tonnes of waste, with 550,000 tonnes of it ending up as landfill. Wanless said that the project will represent 150% of Ipswich’s per capita recycling quota and will result in a 4.1% recycling rate for the whole of Queensland.

    Ipswich City Council supported the proposed waste transfer and recycling facility aspect of the Wanless Recycling Park proposal but decided to reject its landfill component. Council officers recommended the part-refusal of the landfill and partial rehabilitation of a mining void, along with part-approval of the reconfiguration of a lot and recycling centre components.

    About 60 submissions have been lodged on the proposed project. Whilst many residents also approve of a recycling facility, most of them are not keen on having a new landfill site in the area citing environmental concerns. 

    “Our community expects the highest standards of scrutiny of any new landfill proposal in Ipswich, and rightly so,” Mayor Harding said. She said that the proposed project failed to meet the expectations and targets of the Council and the State Government.

    “It is our residents who have worn the negative impacts of the waste industry time and time again,” she added.



    “Worthy of support”

    “Whilst disappointed with the decision of Ipswich City Council, we believe the Wanless Recycling Park is worthy of support, particularly as State government approval was received after a two-year exhaustive process,” Wanless Waste Management CEO Dean Wanless said.

    “Council has proposed we export waste off-site, however this will result in generating more cars, trucks and general traffic on already congested roads,” he added. Wanless also mentioned that the Wanless Recycling Park “will provide a permanent protected area to ensure koalas can live safely and without disturbance,” apart from the 150 full-time union-backed employment opportunities that will be gained once the project is at full production.

    Free Drop-Off for Hazardous Chemicals Opens For One Day Only in Riverview

    Do you have leftover paint and household or garden chemicals stashed at home? If you haven’t gotten around to disposing of these hazardous items, make time for the annual drop-off day that’s coming up in Riverview!



    The Ipswich City Council will open the Riverview Recycling and Refuse Centre on Sunday, 26 Sept 2021, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., to collect garage, garden, kitchen, and bathroom chemicals from residents.

    This service will not cost anything and every household will be allowed to drop off 0 kilograms of hazardous waste and 100 litres of paint.

    “We are encouraging residents to spend some time this weekend going through your bathroom, kitchen, garage or under the house and find any household hazardous waste such as pool chemicals, cleaning products, batteries, tyres, electronic waste and unwanted medicines,” Mayor Teresa Harding said.

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    “Often these items are not suitable to be disposed of in the wheelie bin because they are flammable, corrosive, explosive or toxic to humans, plants or animals.



    “We hold the hazardous chemicals drop-off day every year for this reason – to give residents the opportunity to dispose of waste safely.” 

    Prior to the drop-off, residents are expected to wrap the containers separately in newspapers and plastic bags, and securely set these items in trays or buckets during the transport. For a minimal fee, they may also drop off any waste items that are not particularly hazardous.

    Those coming to Riverview will be asked to present proof of residency in Ipswich.

    Ipswich City Council Braces for 220 Events for 2021

    Ipswich is preparing to say goodbye to 2020 by planning over 220 events in music, sports, food and entertainment for 2021. As the second stage of the Nicholas Street Precinct redevelopment is underway, the Ipswich City Council has unveiled exciting major events that locals and visitors can look forward to in the coming year.

    Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding highlighted some of these council-supported events: 

    WHENWHATWHERE
    FebruaryEarth Frequency FestivalIvory’s Rock
    MarchIpswich 100Ipswich and surrounds
    MayPlanes, Trains and AutomobilesThe Workshops Rail Museum
    May The GatheringIpswich Turf Club
    May White Rock Trail FestivalWhite Rock
    JuneFestival of HorsepowerIpswich Turf Club and Motorsport Precinct
    JulySPARK Ipswich (the reimagined Ipswich Festival)citywide
    AugustStory Arts Festivalcitywide
    August/SeptemberGalvanized – A Festival of Heritagecitywide
    September99 Bikes Cycle and Trail Run EpicHiddenvale Adventure Park
    October Goodna Jacaranda Festival Goodna
    DecemberChristmas in Ipswichcitywide

    Check the Ipswich Festivals official site for more information and updates on next year’s festivities. 



    It comes as the anticipated annual CMC Rocks won’t return until 2022. Ms Harding said that the Council’s liaising team was working with the promoters for several weeks to examine how CMC Rocks could proceed.

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    However, the event promoters decided to skip staging a 2021 event despite its economic, social and cultural benefits to the region. 

    “We have had to endure some tough times this year and everyone has had to make some tough decisions. But I think our community understands and will look forward to the next CMC Rocks with even greater enthusiasm,” the mayor said. 



    Commonwealth Hotel: Rebuilding of Century-Old Brick Walls Begins

    The Commonwealth Hotel in Union Plaza at the Ipswich CBD is going to rise and open again as the rebuilding of its century-old brick walls is underway. Following months of deconstruction and stabilisation, Built Qld Pty Ltd is putting back and bonding some 20,000 refurbished bricks as part of the restoration of this historic site.

    This specific reconstruction work will take at least a month to complete, according to Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee chair Councillor Marnie Doyle. However, the full reconstruction of the hotel will entail at least 23 weeks.

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    “The hotel was taken apart piece by piece and materials stored in a council warehouse ahead of reconstruction,” Ms Doyle said. “Original bricks have been preserved and new ones carefully chosen as the construction process blends old with new.”

    “The reconstruction is being overseen by renowned local architect and heritage expert Peter Johnston as well as the project’s engineers, as they carefully put the old pieces back together.”



    Also known as the old Murphy’s Town Pub, Commonwealth Hotel’s facade had been uninhabitable due to large cracks and deterioration. 

    Photo Credit: Cr Marnie Doyle/Facebook

    In July, the Council pulled funding for its reconstruction from the $250 million CBD redevelopment. 

    The Commonwealth Hotel is the only 1910 structure to remain standing amidst the establishment of shopping centres all around the site in the 1980s. 

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    “We have lost so many significant heritage and historical buildings that were victims of the 80s; many beautiful buildings were just bulldozed and replaced with modern structures that are now outdated,” Ms Doyle said. “I think this is one important win we need in Ipswich to preserve some of our history.” 



    Meanwhile, prospective tenants have informed the Council of their interest to reopen the hotel/bar once the building is ready for occupancy. 

    Ipswich Adopts 2 Types of Six-Month Free Parking Trials

    Motorists using the on-street and off-street parking spaces around the Ipswich city centre will enjoy new parking options under two types of free parking trials adopted by the Ipswich City Council.

    The trials were introduced on Monday, 26 Oct 2020, and will run until the end of April 2021. 

    The scheme will cover around 3,500 unrestricted or time-managed parking spaces, whilst approximately 710 spaces will be subjected to priced parking. 



    Parking trial 1 includes the free use of CBD parking spaces for 15 minutes. Parking trial 2 includes the lifting of the time and pay restrictions of on-street parking during Saturdays, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    Motorists are encouraged to look at the new City of Ipswich Parking Pricing Strategy and share their comments or feedback about the free parking trials in the comment box.  



    Prior to the trial, Ipswich City Council’s parking pricing around the CBD were as follows: 

    TIMEPRICE
    0.5 hr$0.70
    1 hr$1.40
    2 hrs$2.80
    3 hrs$4.20
    4 hrs$5.60
    9 hrs$7.00

    “It is great news for the business community and for people coming to the CBD. Some of the most common complaints have been from motorists having to pay for a brief stop in the city centre,” Deputy Mayor Marnie Doyle said. “[Feedback] is particularly important at this time, with the Ipswich Central redevelopment nearing completion, that we learn what works best for motorists and businesses in the CBD.”

    Springfield Greenbank Arterial Project: Major Road Duplication to Prioritise Stage 3

    Key roads in the Springfield region will undergo major upgrades in 2021 under the Springfield Greenbank Arterial (SGA) Duplication project. Work will start with Stage 3, which covers Eden Station Drive to Sinnathamby Boulevard.

    According to MP Charis Mullen, the Ipswich City Council decided to change the SGA sequencing to start with Stage 3 “given the other major projects in the area.”

    “This was in a letter sent to residents recently,” Ms Mullen said.



    Stage 3’s key features include the following: 

    • Road widening to four lanes
    • Springfield Greenbank Arterial/Main Street/Centenary Highway roundabout upgraded with signalised intersection
    • New entrance/exit at the Springfield Central Railway Station carpark
    • Construction of road cycle lanes for cyclists and pedestrians

    The Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) plans to erect a multi-storey carpark at the Main Street intersection before the roadwork begins.

    Photo Credit: Ipswich City Council

    This Springfield Greenbank Arterial project is necessary to meet the travel demands that will come with city’s rapid growth. 

    “The overall project includes 3.9 km of road duplication and shared path upgrades. The project is set to be the largest single road project in the Council’s history,” the fact sheet stated. “With such a large capital cost to the Council, if delivered in a single year, the project would consume over half of the typical capital works budget. By spreading the costs across a number of stages, the project can be delivered over multiple years, and allows for Council to continue to deliver its usual portfolio of new roads, road rehabilitation, open space, drainage and facilities project.” 



    The timing of construction will still be determined but it is approximated to take 12 months to complete. 

    For questions about the Springfield Greenbank Arterial project, phone 07 3810 6666 or email IED.Projects@ipswich.qld.gov.au.

    DA Approved For Six-Storey Tower In Ipswich CBD

    Ipswich City Council has given the green light to transform a block on the corner of Limestone and Ellenborough streets into a multi-use six-storey commercial tower.

    The 1,189 sqm development at 90 Limestone Street will feature a restaurant/bistro and small shop on the first floor and commercial offices in the remainder of the building. It will also have 42 car spaces over two levels, 29 of which are on the basement and the 13 others on the first floor.

    90 Limestone Street (Photo Credit: pdonline.ipswich.qld.gov.au)

    Whilst the approved development exceeds the three-storey height limit for the site, it is considered a ‘landmark’ site due to its location.

    “The height of the proposal has been assessed, taking into consideration the nearby courthouse development (7 storeys), and the significant view corridors present through this location,” Baird & Hayes Surveyors and Town Planners noted in the report on behalf of The Ernst Pfister Superfund.



    The application also mentioned that the prominent trees within the 88 Limestone Street property, on the Ellenborough Street alignment known to be white fig will not be impacted by the development. These trees are approximately 120 years old and play a significant role in the established character of Ipswich.

    “The intention or objective for the Ipswich CBD area is for it to remain as the administrative and cultural centre for the Western Corridor of SEQ, as well as act as the main retail and commercial centre for Ipswich’s centre, western suburbs and surrounding rural areas,” Baird & Hayes noted.

    Construction of the new building will commence after the demolition of the existing structure (currently an Autobarn retailer and Tattoo Studio).

    Further information about this approved development can be viewed at MCU – 6645 / 2019.



    New Mural Brings Colour to Ellenborough Street in Ipswich

    A colourful new mural is now on display in Ellenborough Street in Ipswich. The wall, previously covered with faded pictures of Hollywood movie stars, has been  transformed into a vibrant piece of art with its retro-futuristic theme.

    Ipswich City Council commissioned Queensland born artist Sam Songialo to paint the mural in Ipswich CBD. They chose Mr Songialo for his visually compelling design that is best suited for the wall’s grid pattern. Council also sought advice from public art consultant Simon Koger to help shape the strategic direction of the public art in the CBD.

    Mr Songialo’s design is “retro future,” which according to him was inspired by all the ‘80s clothes and surf wear his mum never bought him when he was young. This design is considered one of a kind in South East Queensland.

    The mural, being the first of the three public arts planned for CBD, is part of the Public Art Strategy and Plan for the Nicholas St redevelopment. It revolves around the theme “Shine,” which symbolizes the growth and evolution of Ipswich’s history and culture, reflecting on the journey of change and development over time.



    The second mural will be painted at 143 Brisbane Street, a building at the top of Nicholas Street owned by Council. Presently, they are still developing the concept for this mural. The third is in the arts selection phase, but it will be an Indigenous mural.

    Ipswich City Council Acting Chief Executive Officer Sean Madigan revealed that the three murals are just the beginning of the public art being planned in CBD. Locals can expect more large scale murals to be located in a prominent position in the civic space adjacent to the new Council administration building. 

    Council wanted to bring life to spaces that are currently unused. They will also come up with workshops during the Brisbane Street Art Festival, so residents will have opportunities to be involved.

    For more information about the project visit the Ipswich First website.