Chuwar’s cherished Colleges Crossing Recreation Reserve is set for a significant transformation as Ipswich City Council greenlights a $5.5 million contract aimed at rehabilitating the beloved public space.
Mayor Teresa Harding, leading the Growth, Infrastructure, and Waste Committee, expressed the Council’s commitment to refurbishing the reserve for the community’s benefit, following the extensive damage caused by the 2022 floods.
“Colleges Crossing bore the brunt of the 2022 floods, prompting our concerted efforts to restore and enhance its resilience against future calamities,” Mayor Harding stated.
The approved contract encompasses a broad spectrum of refurbishment activities, encompassing the dismantling and replacement of dilapidated infrastructure, including pathways, equipment, and structures. The initiative also involves critical interventions such as reinforcing riverbanks to avert erosion, as well as introducing new amenities like picnic spots, restroom facilities, shelters, playgrounds, and irrigation systems.
Councillor Paul Tully, Deputy Chairperson of the Growth, Infrastructure, and Waste Committee, emphasized the Council’s cautious approach to redesigning Colleges Crossing with resilience to future floods at the core.
“Extensive community consultations earlier this year showcased overwhelming support for a more naturalistic approach to revamping Colleges Crossing,” Cr Tully highlighted.
The tendering process attracted significant interest, with six tenders received and meticulously evaluated by a panel to ensure alignment with Council’s expectations and capacity to deliver. The successful tenderer, yet to be publicly disclosed pending contract negotiations, demonstrates a commendable track record in similar endeavors and vows to support local businesses within Ipswich.
Deputy Mayor Russell Milligan stressed the significance of this rehabilitation in fortifying Ipswich against potential future flood events. Recognizing the necessity to reimagine Colleges Crossing to withstand such challenges, he highlighted the shift towards a more resilient and flood-ready Ipswich.
Although initial construction projections indicated a late 2023 start, meticulous design considerations and tender procedures for optimal outcomes suggest a revised commencement date in early 2024, aiming for the best possible flood-resilient design.
Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann echoed the sentiment, acknowledging the emotional attachment of thousands of residents to Colleges Crossing and celebrating the commencement of substantial restoration work.
While the journey towards complete restoration remains ongoing, the securing of a contractor marks a pivotal stride in rejuvenating Colleges Crossing, a beloved haven for the Ipswich community.
For updates on the Colleges Crossing Project, residents can follow developments via Shape Your Ipswich.
Background:
The contract entails comprehensive works:
- Demolition of existing damaged infrastructure and structures.
- Earthworks for contouring, drainage, and stabilization.
- Riverbank fortification to prevent erosion.
- Landscaping to integrate with the natural environment.
- Installation of amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, shelters, and restrooms.
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