174 Margaret Street set to become Carnival Lane

The legacy of the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers will live on for years to come.

At today’s Ordinary Meeting of Council, a decision was made to name the future laneway at 174 Margaret Street in Toowoomba as Carnival Lane in recognition of the event.

Toowoomba Regional Council Mayor Paul Antonio said the name offered great opportunities for branding and artistic themes to celebrate the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers.

“I would like to thank Councillor Geoff McDonald, who first brought this suggestion before Council,” he said.

“The Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers is such an iconic event that was earlier this year inducted into the prestigious Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame.

“To recognise this year’s 70th anniversary in this way is quite appropriate and will help reinforce the Garden City image of Toowoomba.

“We are committed to revitalising the CBD and the site in Margaret Street will soon be transformed to reveal an attractive urban walkway and meeting place for the community.”

Following consultation for future plans of the site, internal demolition of the property at 174 Margaret Street began in August this year.

Planning and Development portfolio leader Anne Glasheen said Council received a range of positive comments regarding plans to construct the lane that will link Margaret Street to Jessie and Annand Streets.

“The project, which is part of Council’s Laneway Strategy for the CBD and the overarching Toowoomba City Centre Masterplan, will realise a vision to transform this area of the CBD,” she said.

“When completed the new walkway will provide a convenient pedestrian thoroughfare between the CBD and longer-term car parking and other retailers.

“By incorporating good urban design ideas, 174 Margaret Street will be an attractive, safe open space for city workers and the public to enjoy.

“The plan proposes an area incorporating green space, visitor information, public amenities, weather protection and convenient access to surrounding areas.”

Laneway construction is scheduled to start early next year and be completed by the middle of 2020.

For more information visit www.tr.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 131 872.