Iceworks project shelved

Council's plan to construct a multi-storey apartment block on the old Iceworks site has been shelved after the sale of the property fell through.

The Iceworks site at 176-178 Beryl Street was originally set to be sold by public auction in February 2023 due to the large amount of unpaid rates owing on the property, however the owner opted for a private sale to Council instead, and contracts were signed in March 2023.

Council then set its sights on partnering with State Government agencies to construct modern apartments on the site to house key workers in the health, education, and emergency services sectors, thereby improving local services and easing the housing crisis facing the city.

However, the Iceworks owner passed away prior to the contracts becoming unconditionally binding, effectively halting the sale.

Council subsequently began negotiations with the owner's Estate to proceed with the purchase, however in January 2024 the Estate opted to instead pay off the rates owed on the property and retain ownership.

Council's General Manager, Jay Nankivell, said it was a difficult situation for all parties.

"It's pretty unfortunate for everyone. First and foremost the family has suffered a tragic loss, and from Council's perspective, we've had to shelve a project that could have had huge benefits for the City and the community," he said.

"However our initial conversations with the State Government around this project were very positive, so we'll certainly keep our eyes open for an alternative location to bring it to fruition in the future.

"In the meantime we're grateful to the Estate for paying off the significant sum of unpaid rates on the property, which will provide a much-needed boost to the city's finances as we prepare for the 2024/45 budget period."