I’m excited by the future of the Barlow Park and Cairns Showgrounds Precinct.
Council is seeking Federal support for a comprehensive masterplan and business case to chart a course for this massive 26-hectare site in the heart of our city, with an application lodged to do just that.
It’s time for a broader vision beyond just sports and major events – so what could this precinct look like in 10 years, and beyond?
Part of this site could become our version of the much loved Eat Street site in Brisbane.
We could revitalise and rejuvenate the Fearnley St drain into a canal with a walking and cycling greenway. We absolutely need a high-performance centre at West Barlow Park to be used by the NQ Cowboys women’s team and visiting athletes, as well as locals.
It could host concerts from music superstars. To create jobs and ongoing revenue for the site, it could also provide a small example of residential development that demonstrate what’s possible for tropical urbanism and architecture.
Most importantly, the Cairns Show will remain at the Showgrounds and be the beneficiary of upgraded facilities.
A comprehensive masterplan and business case is critical for the future of the entire precinct. While masterplans and studies have been done before, they were rushed and didn’t provide a clear path forward with costed projects.
