Monday (Nov 12) marked the turning of the first sod on Townsville’s latest development, the new AUD$25 million Quest Serviced Apartments property.
Cr Vern Veitch, Townsville Deputy Mayor and Andrew Weisz, General Manager – Location, Quest Serviced Apartments, both sported a shovel on Monday, officially launching the construction phase.
Weisz discussed Townsville’s market strengths on-site, at the corner ofLeichhardt and Eyre Streets.
“Our key market is that of the extended stay business traveller. Townsville’s key visitor drivers aredefence, mining and tourism. Our product, to provide quality, flexible accommodation inthriving regional and suburban hubs, is designed specifically to cater to travellers such as these,” Weisz said.
The development is expected to be completed in late 2013 and, once finished, will house 88studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments.
“We have seen demand for our services grow in line with the area’s growth. We know with certainty that defence and mining will continue to grow, which is why we are building a second property here in Townsville,” Weiszsaid.
“We make it our business to deliver capacity for growing markets, and are doing so by expanding our network significantly, this financial year alone, we are opening 12 new properties.
“Commencing construction here in Townsville is yet another milestone in our growthstrategy.”
Cr Veitchsaid the start of construction on the Quest Townsvilleproject was a strong signal to the development community and investors around Australia thatthe city was forging ahead.
“An investment of this size is a big vote of confidence in Townsville’s future, local jobs and the great opportunities our city has to offer,” Cr Veitch said.
“Congratulations to Quest for taking the initiative with the new Townsville location and I now look forward to seeing some welcome construction activity on the former TGH site.”
The council’s Planning Committee chairman Cr Tony Parsons said council’s planning staff had worked closely with the developer of the property, Leichardt Developments Pty Ltd, in the pre-lodgmentperiod to reduce processing times for development approvals.
“The early work meant that many issues were resolved before the development application was lodged, drastically cutting waiting times,” Cr Parsons said.
“The additional capacity this project will bring to the short term accommodation market will greatly improve our ability to attract and host major events and meet growing business needs.”
When finished, the property will provide accommodation complete with conference facilities, swimming pool, on-site gym, café and car parking.