Two heritage-listed buildings, Dutton’s Cottage and the old Queanbeyan fire station on Crawford Street, will be incorporated into the facade of the proposed new development. Artist’s impression: Village Building Company.
The Village Building Company’s proposed Rutledge St. development is expected to be a catalyst to revitalise the Queanbeyan central business district, drawing in residents and visitors from the local area and ACT.
Village ACT Region general manager Jamie Cregan says the momentum created by the project will “undoubtedly spark further growth and transformation within the CBD”.
“The development stands as a pioneering example of exceptional residential and commercial growth and will serve as a testament to the pent-up demand for this particular product within the Queanbeyan CBD,” he says.
“The success of Rutledge St. will instil confidence in the market, encouraging further development, and we are already witnessing a surge of interest from landowners in the surrounding area.”
Mr Cregan says increasing the residential and working population in the city is essential for businesses to thrive, while a larger customer base will increase the viability and growth of existing businesses and encourage the establishment of new businesses.
“The presence of CBD residents will immediately establish Queanbeyan as the most convenient shopping location, while a higher concentration of residents within the heart of the city will ensure a consistent and loyal customer base for local businesses,” he says.
“A thriving and vibrant CBD will enhance the shopping experience, making Queanbeyan a more desirable destination.”
It’s envisaged that a new central pedestrian laneway designated as an “eat street” featuring a range of cafes, restaurants and other food outlets will also establish the city as a top choice for dining.
The Rutledge St. proposal, consisting of two residential buildings with ground floor commercial space in the heart of the CBD, is currently in the hands of Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (QPRC). Once approved, construction is expected to take about two years.
The Village Building Company acquired the two adjoining sites totalling more than 5000 square metres from council in late 2021. Mr Cregan says the development remains consistent with the objectives of the city’s masterplan and is sympathetic to the surrounding architecture and heritage.
Both buildings are below the height of the adjacent QPRC office tower currently under construction, and the development provides 95 more car parking spaces than required by planning legislation.
Two heritage buildings, the old fire station and Dutton’s Cottage, will be retained and incorporated into the Crawford Street heritage frontage.
“The restoration will transform them into remarkable business premises,” Mr Cregan says.
Special attention has been given to the prominent ‘Heritage Corner’ to create a welcoming space for the community with raised gardens and a designated gathering area.
“Our heritage corner serves as a tribute to the historical significance of the block, and proudly exemplifies the harmonious integration of old and new elements,” Mr Cregan says.
“We will repurpose bricks from non-heritage houses to construct the raised gardens and, within the gardens, a lemon grove will be cultivated, symbolising the former lemonade factory that once stood on the site. The former well on the premises will be transformed into a community drinking fountain, providing a reinterpretation of its historical significance.”
By understanding and appreciating the town’s story, Mr Cregan says residents “gain a deeper connection to their community”.
“It allows them to recognise the significant changes that have shaped Queanbeyan into what it is today,” he says.
“Preserving and showcasing our proud history in Queanbeyan is crucial for the enjoyment and education of future generations.”
The ground floor of the proposed buildings will complement the existing heritage buildings through the brick and material selection in the ground floor colonnades.
Rutledge St. will provide much-needed housing diversity and choice for the people of Queanbeyan and the region with a range of one to four-bedroom apartments expected to be priced from about $400,000.
The new Q Living Magazine, recently launched by the Village Building Company’s marketing team, highlights the beauty and diversity of the Queanbeyan-Palerang region and its small businesses.
“The Q Living team members are proud residents of the Queanbeyan region and thrilled to have launched a publication that showcases the best our region has to offer and to encourage growth and expansion in our community,” Mr Cregan says.
The Spring/Summer edition of Q Living Magazine will be released in late September – October and residents can pick up a copy at their local major shopping centre.
Register your interest in the Rutledge St. development to keep up to date with its progress and be the first to know when units are released for sale.
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