Toowoomba Council Approves Major Rezoning for Westside Growth Corridor

Toowoomba's planning landscape shifted significantly this week as the City Council approved a controversial rezoning application affecting nearly 45 hectares along the Westside Growth Corridor, clearing the way for mixed-use development that could accommodate up to 2,000 new residential dwellings.

The decision, handed down Wednesday after months of community consultation, redesignates rural land between Wilsonton and Southtown precincts from agricultural zoning to medium-density residential and commercial. Crucially, the approval includes new infrastructure requirements that developers must fund, including upgrades to stormwater management systems and preliminary works on extending utilities along Range Road.

"This is about ensuring Toowoomba's housing supply keeps pace with demand," said a Council spokesperson, noting that median house prices in established areas like Middle Ridge and Newtown have climbed to approximately $680,000 over the past 18 months. "Strategic rezoning allows us to unlock new housing options at various price points."

The decision comes amid broader pressure on regional housing. Data from the Toowoomba Development Association indicates that residential vacancy rates have fallen below 1.2 per cent—well below the healthy 3 per cent benchmark. First-home buyers have increasingly looked to outer suburbs and satellite towns, with some considering properties in Clifton or Pittsworth as alternatives to inner-city costs.

However, the rezoning has drawn scrutiny from environmental groups concerned about impacts on the Toowoomba region's agricultural heritage. The Darling Downs Environment Council flagged water management and vegetation clearing concerns during the consultation period, though the Council's assessment concluded that proposed conditions adequately address these issues.

Separately, the Council confirmed this week that the long-awaited Anzac Avenue streetscape upgrade—a $8.2 million project spanning from Bridge Street to Campbell Street—will commence in September 2026. The 18-month project aims to enhance pedestrian accessibility, introduce native plantings, and improve traffic flow through the CBD's primary commercial spine.

Planning staff also flagged upcoming policy work on housing diversity, with a review of dual-occupancy provisions expected before year's end. That review could influence whether properties across Toowoomba's established suburbs become eligible for subdivision into smaller lots.

The full planning register and conditions for the Westside Growth Corridor development are now publicly available through the Toowoomba Regional Council website. Community feedback on the Anzac Avenue project design is being accepted until 18 July.

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