Queensland is seeing significant population growth, which is putting pressure on local infrastructure. The Redbank Plains area near Ipswich is no different, with the 2011 census recording close to 15,000 residents.
This number continues to rise, making the construction of additional residential properties a priority. In a recent announcement from the Ipswich City Council, the authority is planning for 164 new lots at a development site at Eden’s Crossing.
Planning and Development Committee Chairman Councillor Paul Tully explained the scope of the new construction and what it will include.
“The development will form the initial stages of the Eden’s Crossing estate. A new road will provide access via School Road, and the estate will eventually be linked to Augusta Parkway and will have direct access to the Centenary Highway,” he said.
“This approval is another investment in Redbank Plains – another sustainable development that will offer affordable housing options, family-friendly greenspace and improved infrastructure in one of Ipswich’s leading growth regions.”
The site will host a number of different property sizes to accommodate new residents in the years ahead. These range from terrace-style 225 sqm lots to significant 910 sqm houses.
Division 9 Councillor Sheila Ireland noted the opportunities that construction like this is providing to the local community.
“It’s a real hot spot at the moment. Residential development is transforming Redbank Plains and bringing a lot of new people to the area,” she said.
However, for those seeking apprenticeship opportunities, Ipswich is not the only part of the state to see improved housing in recent years.
Queensland housing investment
According to the Queensland government, construction opportunities have been growing since the beginning of last year, thanks to an increase in the amount being invested in the state.
In the August 2015 quarter alone, the investor finance commitments topped $675 million, highlighting the growing confidence in the property industry.
“The property sector is a real bright spot in the Queensland economy and it’s making a positive contribution to jobs and growth,” Treasurer Curtis Pitt said in an October 12 media statement.
“Last week the latest quarterly ANZ/Property Council Survey showed confidence in Queensland’s property sector has risen two points.”
Housing is just one area of construction which has seen positive changes in recent times. The Queensland commercial construction industry also continues to grow from strength to strength on the back of greater demand for infrastructure.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Relations Coordinator
