For the first time in since the 80s, Nicholas Street will be open to traffic in a bid to lure more diners to the new entertainment precinct.
Ipswich Central redevelopment chairperson Marnie Doyle says opening to vehicles will ensure easy access to the $250 million dining hotspot.
Once complete, the Nicholas Street precinct will host 18 tenancies running from Bell Street, opposite Ipswich Railway Station, through to Nicholas Street opposite Ipswich Central Library.
“The last time you could drive your car down Nicholas Street was before the Ipswich Mall opened in 1987,” Ms Doyle says.
Traffic will be one way, and drivers will only be able to enter Nicholas Street from Brisbane Street, starting Monday 24 October. Traffic will exit the precinct from Union Place into Bell Street on a left turn only.
Signage has been erected to inform the community.
The speed limit will be 10km per hour, while there is a gross load limit of eight tonnes. There are also 10-minute parking bays to allowed for drop-off and pick-ups.
“However, general vehicle access will not be permitted during events where appropriate.
“We are opening the road to allow for convenient drop-offs, food delivery pick-ups, and easy access to new and existing businesses.
“Food offerings Zambrero, That Dumpling Place and Gelatissimo have recently opened joining existing businesses along Nicholas Street, and more businesses are on track to open before Christmas.”
Early phases of the redevelopment Tulmur Place, Ipswich Central Library and Ipswich Children’s Library are also now open.
