Ipswich’s Nicholas Street has paid homage to its historical past, with the opening of two beautifully, restored heritage buildings in the city’s Precinct today.
The century-old pub, ‘Hotel Commonwealth’ will be a new “waterhole” for the city along with the art deco style ‘Venue’ building, which will house the new Hoyts Cinemas and games arcade, ‘General Public’.
Three hundred and eleven millions dollars has been invested into the site, which has taken five years to complete.
Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding, at an official ribbon cutting event today, described it as ‘a once in a generation transformation of the city heart’.
“Today is a momentous day for the city and most importantly a momentous day for the people of Ipswich.
“The opening, a culmination of planning and construction from Ipswich City Council and all of the Ipswich mall tenants.
“From an old and derelict mall to the new city heart — this endeavour has been a huge commitment for council and more importantly it has been a huge commitment from our community.
Ipswich City Council estimates that the Nicholas Street Precinct will directly contribute nearly $1.2 billion to the local economy between 2020 and 2032, and is expected to create 480 new city centre jobs for the people of Ipswich.
Hoyts Ipswich Location Manager said the new Nicholas Street Precinct venue featured the best in cinema technology, offering moviegoers an unrivalled, immersive experience.
“HOYTS Nicholas Street redefines the movie-going experience in Ipswich, with standout features like our luxurious HOYTS Daybeds, allowing guests to unwind in ultimate comfort, and the exclusive D-BOX Motion Recliners, which synchronise motion and vibration with every thrilling moment on screen,” Ormsby said.
“We’re excited to introduce this combination of next-level technology, comfort and hospitality to Ipswich locals, adding a new dimension to the entertainment options at the dynamic Nicholas Street Precinct.”
Bolstering the Nicholas Street Precinct entertainment offering is Queensland’s very first General Public, a fun-fuelled “Eatertainery” that has made its mark in Victoria and positions Ipswich Central as the new go-to destination for fun.
General Public Founder Harry Kourbeis said he’d been searching for the right partner and the perfect location to bring General Public to a new market.
“When we saw the incredible transformation happening at Nicholas Street Precinct, and the chance to open alongside HOYTS in this buzzing new destination, it was an absolute nobrainer,” Kourbeis said.
“We knew it was time to bring our unique brand of fun to Queensland.”
Rounding out the elevated experiences on offer at Nicholas Street Precinct is the reopening
of heritage gem Hotel Commonwealth following a spectacular transformation.
Venue Manager Sarah Knopke, who grew up in Ipswich in the 80s and 90s, said the
reopening was not just about unveiling a beautifully restored pub but also fostering a
community-driven experience to bring locals together.
“What excites me most about the Nicholas Street revitalisation is that it’s bringing life back to Ipswich Central and creating a destination for people to connect again,” Knopke said.
“It’s great for hospitality, great for the economy, and great for Ipswich locals.”
HOYTS, General Public and Hotel Commonwealth headline a rapidly transforming Nicholas Street Precinct, joining over 18 businesses offering visitors a fresh mix of dining and entertainment.
