Townsville City Council has approved a revised application for a major mixed-use development it says will revitalise the eastern end of the CBD.

The $450 million Hive project plan which covers 18,000 square metres includes the refurbishment of the heritage-listed Queens Hotel.

An initial application for the Hive was approved by Council last year, however, a revised negotiated proposal for the site has now been approved.

The changes to the original proposal include the introduction of a precinct plan and allowing the maximum height of one tower to 20 storeys.



Deputy Mayor and Planning and Development Committee Chair Cr Les Walker said the expanded Hive development will be divided into four precincts.

They included the Queens Hotel, Entertainment, Cultural and Accommodation precincts Cr Walker said.

“Importantly, The Hive will restore a number of heritage buildings, including the majestic Queen’s Hotel and reinvigorate that area of the city, he said”

Local Councillor Ann-Maree Greaney said the Hive would revitalise that area of the CBD.

“Importantly, the development will revitalise the area and improve pedestrian linkages between The Strand and the CBD,” Cr Greaney said

“We want to encourage more people to the area, that has probably been under-utilised in recent years.”

The demolition of The Criterion Hotel has been approved