Ingham CBD
CONCEPT
MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
How this project
came about…
In October 2014 Hinchinbrook Shire Council contacted James Cook University (Centre of Tropical
Urban and Regional Planning (CTURP) to gauge their interest in undertaking the Ingham CBD
revitalisation as a collaborative student project. The project budget was set at $30,000 (ex GST).
CTURP staff (Sharon Harwood and Lisa Law) in turn engaged
the assistance of industry experts (Gisela Jung of CA Architects;
Roger Mainwood of Total Project Group Architects; Andrew
Prowse of Andrew Prowse Landscape Architect and Nikki
Huddy of Planz Town Planning) to act as mentors to the students
throughout the project and to ensure the delivery industry
standard plans and maps.
What proceeded was beyond the comprehension and experiences
of both the industry experts and CTURP staff. The Hinchinbrook
community showed their commitment and passion for the
revitalisation of Ingham’s town centre by actively and positively
participating in two community consultation workshops. The
community gently guided the JCU students so that they could
understand the aspirations that they have for their town. The
stories from a range of Ingham residents were remarkable
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Alison Newbold
Cameron Venables
Jordan Russo
Andrea Schurmann
Danelle Masters
Matteo Sandona
Andrew la Spina
Hansley Gumbaketi
Rachel Hudson
Anthonly Westbury
Haydn Grazioli
Robert Tily
Anya Spunde
Isabella Newman
Storme Black
Brianna Taylor
Jacinta Ryan
Tamara Katai
Images courtesy of Tamara Katai and Roger Mainwood
with even the negative comments basically suggesting positive
outcomes. The Ingham student representatives from the high
schools gave an insight to how the youth of Ingham interpret
and use their town centre, passionate retailers described their
vision for Ingham and asked for the design to ‘tell the story of
why we love Ingham so much’. The Mayor and Councillors
of Hinchinbrook Shire Council openly gave their time and
knowledge to mentoring the JCU students throughout the process.
Having a supportive and collaborative work environment is
critical to the success and development of young people and the
creation of innovative solutions to complex problems.
This report is the culmination of community, government,
industry and university collaboration that is rarely experienced,
but gratefully acknowledged by JCU staff and students.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
The Concept
Master Plan
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Guiding principles to achieve
through design
This section of the report provides an overview of Concept Master Plan.
Subsequent sections describe how these objectives, outcomes and guiding
principles will be operationalised.
Background
No element of the urban environment is
more important than streets, their design and
embellishments. Streets are where people work,
shop, dine and gather to talk and enjoy the
public spaces within the streetscape.
The quality of the urban environment including
patterns and combinations of particular
qualities affects people’s perceptions of
streetscapes and their willingness to walk
and be socially active in them.
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has contracted James
Cook University, CAArchitects (Gisela Jung);
Andrew Prowse Landscape Architects (Andrew
Prowse); Total Project Group Architects (Roger
Mainwood) and Planz Town Planning (Nikki
Huddy) to create a Master Plan that will revitalise
the township of Ingham.
The design of the Ingham Townscape Master
Plan drew upon previous research undertaken by
Council and the results of consultation with the
broader community that took place on March 11
and 12 in Ingham to identify the assets of the town
and the missing elements (Refer to Attachment
1). The Master Plan presented in this Townscape
Strategy embodies the comments that Ingham
residents have articulated through consultation
and through their own public art works.
The guiding objectives that were applied in the design of the Ingham
Townscape were to:
• Incorporate the suggestions and consider the concerns raised by the
Ingham community regarding the use and enjoyment of the CBD area;
• Create an attractive place that invites locals and visitors to stay and enjoy
its public spaces;
• Design spaces that can accommodate flexible trading hours and outdoor
dining;
• Provide opportunities for visitors using the Bruce Highway to stop, shop
and enjoy the township of Ingham;
• Provide direct links and connections between paths, streets and road
networks so that people can walk and cycle with ease between the CBD,
neighbourhoods and places of interest;
• Provide for a safe and easily accessible place for everyone regardless of
age, ability, culture or income with a diverse range of settings within the
Masterplan area; and
• Provide for modernised, refreshed and co-ordinated ancillary
infrastructure such as footpaths, lighting, water fountains, bike paths,
signage, shelters, seating, shade, toilets, play equipment and rubbish bins.
The Ingham CBD revitalisation Master Plan has three (3) core outcomes:
• To develop an accessible, vibrant and safe community heart through
improved amenity;
• To create a memorable visitor experience; and
• To enhance opportunities to socialise and increase business activity
through improvements to the CBD environment.
This strategy includes a Concept Master Plan that is supported by design
themes and a co-ordinated approach to street furnishings, landscaping
and building style. These elements add a quality to the Ingham main street
that make it distinct, provides reference points and connections from
buildings to streets, or from one side of a street to another to unify seemingly
disconnected elements. This strategy provides opportunities for public arts
projects and the involvement of the community.
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Identity:
Linkage:
to create a distinct, recognisable and memorable place. This
is achieved when specific physical elements (and their
arrangement) capture attention, create a connection with a place
and in turn a lasting impression.
refers to the physical and visual connections between spaces –
buildings to street, building to building and from one side of the
street to the other. It is critical for the design of Ingham’s CBD to
create linkages to unify the elements of the main street.
Legibility:
Complexity:
using physical elements of the urban environment as reference
points (footpath treatments, landscaping etc). In creating a legible
streetscape we are creating a sense of orientation and relative
location for people who use the streets.
while having legibility is important to achieve, so too is the
acknowledgement of Ingham’s past and future. The visual
richness of a place is important and this is achieved through
the numbers and kinds of buildings, the architectural diversity,
ornamentation, landscape elements, street furniture, signage,
colour scheme and human activity.
Transparency:
describes the ability to which people can see or perceive what
lies beyond the edge of a street or other public space. Most
importantly it is the ability of people to see or perceive human
activity beyond the edge.
Tidiness:
this refers to the condition and cleanliness of a place. A place
that shows signs of decay and disorder is in obvious need of
cleaning and repairs. A tidy place looks appealing and cared for
by the residents of the area.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
What our
investigations found
We found that the greatest asset that the Hinchinbrook Shire possesses is the passion that the
residents have for their town centre. A consistent theme throughout our investigations found
that public art projects has united the town and demonstrate the pride (why they love Ingham)
and stories of their past and their hopes for the future.
There was a distinct desire to reinvigorate the town with
pedestrians and domination of the ‘road’ to accommodate
vehicles moving through the town on their way to somewhere
else was not in the interest of anyone in the community.
The sea of empty car spaces in combination with vacant shop
fronts (not withstanding several buildings in a state of disrepair
in a very prominent position on the highway) has resulted in an
undeserved image of decline. What we found is that the passion
of the residents for their town centre is far greater than what is
visually evident. Our Concept Master Plan will create spaces in
the town centre that reflect the pride of its residents and their
commitment to reinvigorating Ingham.
Identity:
Creating a distinct, recognisable and memorable place is achieved
when specific physical elements (and their arrangement) capture
attention, create a connection with a place and in turn provide
a lasting impression. The mosaic project that had been initiated
and developed by the community is an outstanding example
of creating an individual and unique Ingham identity. This
initiative has been one of the design elements that we have
used to continue the involvement of the community in the
implementation phase of the suggested works.
The below image is one of the many panels that have been
created for the Ingham mosaic project in Mercer Lane. This has
been so successful and at the same time there are no linkages
from Lannercost St to Mercer Lane to draw people from one
part of the street to another. However, the Mercer Lane project
is more than just art
work, it is a visual
representation of the
Ingham identity as told
through public art.
Ingham has a great
opportunity to combine
public art and create the
distinct and memorable Ingham identity. Building upon precinct
themes across the township enables the story of Ingham to
be told. Continuing with the unique story telling mosaics,
choosing custom designed street furniture, and re-visualising
the footpaths as an open canvas, a transformation can occur that
will support the face of Ingham to smile for the local community
and visitors alike.
Linkage:
There are four distinct precincts in the Ingham CBD, but no unifying linkages between each of these. The designs within each
precinct bring out the unique attributes and purposes while also creating linkages through implicit design elements to unify the
elements of the main street.
This will be achieved through a combination of landscaping, footpath surfaces, rubbish bin styles (colours and embellishments), colour
scheme for buildings, seating (styles), and landmarks at the corners of streets. We want people to know they are going from one place to
another while recognising that each precinct is different yet it is connected to and with the CBD.
Photo courtesy of Jeanie Govan (JCU)
Legibility:
There was an inconsistency in design elements that lacked
reference points for people to follow. The street furniture and
in particular the spacing of pot planters, footpath surfaces and
landscaping did not create a sense of orientation for people who
are not familiar with the townscape. Our designs (including
themes of each precinct) address this.
3D rendering by CA Architects
Transparency:
Complexity:
Tidiness:
The height of the vegetation (and type) in the traffic island
directly opposite Council Chambers obscured all views of the
streetscape along Lannercost St from Townsville Road. There
was no connection between Lannercost Street and the TYTO
precinct – so no
connection (legibility)
between one place/
precinct and another.
We achieved the
complexity element
for Ingham by
acknowledging its past
through its architectural
diversity, yet at the same
time provide visual hints
throughout that link the
past to the future.
While in general terms the streetscape of Ingham is tidy, it
lacks coherence, and has several buildings in various states
of disrepair.
Obscured views of what
awaits the traveller on
Lannercost St as they
come from Townsville.
A colour scheme for
the town would assist
in highlighting the
connection and the
diversity. This would be
best supported through
the use of landscaping,
street furniture, signage and human activity. This is not just
about the physical elements of design, it is critical to get people
out on the streets to further highlight the complexities between
the built and social environment.
Photo courtesy of Danelle Masters
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Photo courtesy of Danelle Masters
Images courtesy of Tamara Katai and Storme Black
Unfortunately, the concentration of vacant buildings and those
in disrepair are in one visible and central location in the middle
of town. To all commuters (especially those travelling the Bruce
Highway) it creates an impression that the town is in decline.
The pride in the township is not visually apparent, yet is very
strong which was plainly evident in Mercer Lane. This pride
must be made visually apparent throughout the CBD.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
The Concept
The Ingham CBD Concept Master Plan is
comprised of a Concept Plan (CA Architects)
which is further operationalised through a Street
Furniture Strategy (JCU), Landscaping Strategy
(Andrew Prowse) and a Style Guide Strategy
(Total Project Group Architects).
Master Plan
INGHAM BOULEVARD
FROM CAIRNS
HERBERT
STREET
CARTWRIGHT STREET
E
V
A
LA NE
NE W
W
AY
R
D
TRAM LINE
The overarching theme for the Concept Master
Plan is “The Ingham Boulevard”, loosely named
after the wide, green median strip running
through the town and connecting six cultural
‘hubs’. The hubs were identified during
community consultation and findings on site.
While these hubs already exist on their own
terms, the Concept Master Plan encourages
greater legibility.
O
U
L
CARTWRIGHT
VILLAGE
B
WOOLWORTHS
PIAZZA
TO WALLAMAN
FALLS
PROPOSED
ONE LANE
CLOSURE
COLES
TULLY
STREET
LIN
N
AI
TO FORREST
BEACH
TR
BARRA
BUILDING
The Piazza
E
G
K
N
CR
EE
I
ALM
MERCER
LANE
P
H
A
M
The hubs include:
ROTARY
PARK
LANNERCOST STREET
C
SERPENT
PROPOSED
LANE CLOSURE
IR
CU
BOTANIC
GARDENS
SIGNAGE TO
CITY CENTRE
IT
INGHAM BOULEVARD
HOSPITAL
SCHOOL
MEMORIAL
AQUATIC
CENTRE
TYTO
Ingham Boulevard has a strong art theme and is the principal connector
between the Piazza and the Cartwright Village.
We envisage that the Ingham Boulevard will be the space that locals
and visitors will gather to enjoy the art work, recreation facilities and
amenities.
WATER PARK
WETLANDS
This hub represents the centre of the town, and its Italian history. It
can be used for weddings, food festivals, markets, etc, and forms an
important ‘urban’ meeting place in the city.
The CARTWRIGHT Village
This is the new growth area in Ingham. It is a second centre offering
infrastructure in walking distance to new housing. It is suitable for new
development, especially for the elderly population.
LEGEND
SITE BOUNDARY
FOOT TRAFFIC CONNECTIONS
RV PARK
HINCHINBROOK
VISITOR CENTRE
FROM
TOWNSVILLE
HUB
PIAZZA PRECINCT EXTENTS
VILLAGE PRECINCT EXTENTS
INGHAM CBD RE-DEVELOPMENT // Project No.954 CAArchitects -GJ 18.06.2015 // CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
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“THE INGHAM BOULEVARD”
connecting 5 HUBS:
- PIAZZA
(LANNERCOST ST)
- INGHAM BOULEVARD
(ROTARY PARK)
- YOUTH
(HERBERT ST)
- CARTWRIGHT VILLAGE
(CARTWRIGHT ST)
- MEMORIAL
(BOTANIC GARDENS)
- WETLANDS
(TYTO)
Memorial
This hub includes the Botanic Gardens, and is an area for ceremonies
and war memorials.
TYTO PRECINCT
The TYTO precinct is already a well-defined cultural and
environmental hub, and represents a major arrival node for tourists.
The master planning process will create better connectivity between
the TYTO precinct and Lannercost Street.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Lannercost Street
Tully Street
The central theme for the redesign of Lannercost Street is to incorporate a public space that
can be used for formal and informal gatherings. Currently there is a sign at the corner of
Lannercost and Townsville Road that describes the area as the Conzano Piazza, despite the
apparent lack of an actual Piazza.
The TYTO Precinct is a significant asset to the town centre. It includes critical social infrastructure
such as the library and art gallery for local residents, but also provides a space for visitors, local
businesses and residents to gather and socialise in a natural setting.
SEATING ALCOVES
Shared space
with pedestrian
and one-way
vehicle access.
Retractable bollards
to close vehicle
access for events
BOCCE
LAWN
FEATURE TREES
HOTEL
covered plaza
with opprtunity for
water feature/ water
play or mosaics/
artwork
LANNERCOST STREET
Feature
Wall & Seats
Removal of
landscaping at
intersection to
improve visitor
sightlines and
allow heavy
vehicle through
traffic
DELI
BUTCHER
HOTEL
ONE LANE
TULLY STREET
COLES
ONE LANE
TULLY STREET
HOTEL
SHOP
LOU’S
DELI
NEW ROAD surface
to slow traffic (cobble
stones or similar)
Low Wall / seat
and link to tyto
IDENTIFIER/
ARTWORK:
INGHAM
TOWN CENTRE
NEW OUTDOOR SEATING
for cafes, bars and shops
EXISTING COVERED
CROSSING
Low
Wall /
seat
INGHAM CBD RE-DEVELOPMENT // Project No.954 CAArchitects-GJ 18.06.2015 // CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
INGHAM CBD RE-DEVELOPMENT // Project No.954 CAArchitects-GJ 31.03.2015 // CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
the piazza
As part of the overarching boulevard concept the medium strip at Lannercost Street is to be widened to create an
urban promenade and piazza allowing locals and visitors to engage or relax. Landscape to be formal including exsting
trees. lawn and planters. Additional shade to be provided by a large shade structure over the main piazza.
The Concept Master Plan creates a real Piazza as a place that
residents and visitors can gather, eat and play. The design
includes a water fountain as a feature, places to eat on the
street, market place, chess board and a Bocce lawn.
To develop the area into a Piazza requires the removal of trees at
the intersection to improve the transparency and legibility down
Lannercost Street. The low wall at the intersection provides for
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TYTO
a unique identifier (artwork embedded in the structure) to draw
commuters from Townsville Road to Lannercost Street. This
same low wall design is proposed for the north west corner
of the intersection of McIlwraith St and Townsville Road and
the north west corner of the intersection of McIlwraith and
Tully Street to create legible linkages from the highway through
Lannercost Street.
LINK FROM CBD TO TYTO PRECINCT
Road to be narrowed where possible and footpath to be widened by deleting carparking. Heavy vehicle traffic access
via main road. Refer to masterplan.New concrete paving to provide opportunity for artwork of bird footprints
Diagonal axis from TYTO to form outline for landscaping shapes. Landscape to be consistent with TYTO (low
maintenance grasses or similar). Shade to be provided by trees or sculptured shade structures.
At present there are no distinct linkages between the town
centre and the TYTO Precinct. To address this disconnect
the Concept Master Plan has created a linkage between
Lannercost Street via Tully Street to the TYTO Precinct.
The Street Furnishing Strategy and the Landscaping Strategy
contained in this report detail how the subtle design features will
enhance linkages, improve legibility and create transparency.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Street Furniture
STRATEGY
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Design themes
Lannercost St // Ingham’s Heritage of all cultures told through story telling
Example art project (design by Danelle Masters)
A Cane Knife Seat, designed to capture the binding history between people, the pioneers, the South Sea Islanders, the Mediterranean workers (especially the Italians)
and the seasonal worker who made a significant contribution in shaping the Shire’s community’
The Lannercost Precinct starts at the intersection of Tully Street and Lannercost Street and finishes at Herbert Street. Existing
and developing art projects within the precinct tell the stories of the Hinchinbrook Shire and portray the outstanding diversity of
surrounding natural attractions and experiences.
Background
There was a time when street furniture was built from
local materials that provided a distinct and local character.
However with the advent of mass produced furniture in
combination with adding bits and pieces as the budget could
allow has diminished the local Ingham identity.
Our investigations found a variety of types and styles of bins,
benches, picnic tables, park furniture, butt bins, covered
seating, bike stands, water fountains, footpath surfaces and
pot planters. Many are in need of repair, painting, resurfacing
and general maintenance. In the most they were in good
condition, however the community were very clear that they
wanted to have consistency throughout the design elements.
The community want the footpaths to be updated, cleaned and
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to have a consistent appearance throughout the Ingham CBD.
Similarly comments were made about the desire to have the
‘pot planters’ to be made more attractive (consistent style) and
wanted the design to make people feel more welcome and the
streetscape more attractive. References (73% of presentations 11th
of March) were made about the need to have new bins, lighting,
seating, bright colours, signage (stories) and uniform plantings
(ie landscaping) to improve the appearance of Ingham. The
recommended street upgrade and furnishings in this strategy
will provide a mechanism for achieving the linkages between
themed precincts. However, the most distinct message from
the community consultation workshops was the desire to tell
the Hinchinbrook stories and describe the outstanding natural
attractions through public art. Our design elements have
incorporated these comments accordingly.
Example Corner Seat (Design by Danelle Masters)
Typically street furniture refers to seating, rubbish bins, light poles, water fountains (drinking
and ornamental), bike paths, shelters, play equipment, pot plants, footpath treatments and
signage. Street furnishings can also include elements such as public art, wifi hubs and access
to digital story telling and public information. Street Furniture is a design element used to
attract people to use and enjoy spaces that in turn create memorable places.
The theme for the Lannercost Street Precinct is local history celebrated and presented through storytelling in key pieces of street furniture
and selected sections of footpath treatment. The commissioning of key street art projects or bespoke ‘one off’ street furniture pieces
represents methods to incorporate story telling into the Lannercost Street Precinct.
Tully St // Bird theme
Tully Street is the principal corridor between the Lannercost Street Precinct and the TYTO precinct. Tully Street will celebrate the Shire’s
diversity of birdlife. Bird footprints within the Tully Street footpath treatment will highlight the proximity of the TYTO Wetlands to the
urban centre. A recommendation for later installation of three/ four giant sculptured birds on the north side footpath traversing from
Lannercost Street to the TYTO precinct is suggested. A further recommendation is the commissioning of a piece of art furniture on the
corner of Tully Street and Lannercost Street that enhances the transparency and linkages between the history theme of the Lannercost
Street Precinct and the bird theme of Tully Street.
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Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham Boulevard // Community Art Space
A community space stretching from Palm Creek to the Herbert
Street/ Cartwright Street intersection that caters for both the
local community and travellers along the Bruce Highway.
The Boulevard serves as the principle connector between
the Lannercost Precinct and Cartwright Precinct and will
incorporate a community art theme whilst incorporating key
design elements to reflect the needs and uses of the local
community and tourists arriving in Ingham. The Ingham
Boulevard is more than a travellers rest area, the redesign
provides for a range of diverse settings that cater to an equally
diverse set of visitors and locals alike.
Herbert St // North South Spine of the town
Herbert Street has been developed to be a car based commercial
precinct with car parking and the Bruce Highway being a
dominant feature of the streetscape. Commercial land uses
occupy either side of Herbert St’s providing an opportunity for
business customers to enjoy the large under developed central
open spaces. Our research identified three distinct sub precincts
and suggested themes.
Palm Creek Serpentine Theme
Currently a drain, Palm Creek is the central natural feature of
Ingham. It also carries a significant amount of water through the
town when it floods. Palm Creek backs up behind Lannercost
Street in peak flood times due to the small sized pipeheads
under the highway. Our proposed redevelopment will see Palm
creek transform to a green serpent winding through town, we
suggest an Indigenous focus in design elements through stories
and art work.
Youth Open Space Theme
Many of the town’s youth gather in the central medium reserves
to the north of Herbert St, which lead to a youth based theme that
will cater to the younger generations need for a purpose space of
their own.
STREET PLANTER POTS
Designs by Danelle Masters
What is…
Currently, the planters’ and their contents are a bit tired and in need of a refresh. The
placement and location of the planters have little continuity which affects the aesthetics of the
streetscape. The type and quantity located along Lannercost, Tully, and Herbert Streets are:
round shaped planters 30, square 11, sphere 3, and the cylinder 2 (approx.*)
The Peoples’ Park Theme
Rotary Park is the centrally located main parkland and
currently includes: Maraka entertainment stage and children’s
playground. Rotary Park’s green grassy stretches host an
entertainment stage and children’s playground and public
toilets. Here, request have been sought by the local feed-back
seminars, for a ‘wall of town pride’ and Ingham Art Sculpture
Park. There was a desire to see more pathways, general
amenities and RV day parking established which will further
broaden the spectrum of park users.
Pot Planters
Cartwright: Ocean life theme
Cartwright precinct starts at the intersection of Herbert Street
and Cartwright and finishes at Eleanor Street. Cartwright Street
journeys to the coast, to areas such as Forest Beach and Mungana
Station. The theme for Cartwright is a combination of Indigenous
and marine elements. The footpath will have a surface treatment
of a variety of etched marine life upon it with refurbished slat
timber bench seats lining the pathways. Landscaping will focus
on highlighting the historic architecture and improve the visual
aesthetics of the streetscape.
The priority for this precinct is to gain linkages from Cartwright
St to Palm Creek via Eleanor Street and to construct footpaths
on both Eleanor Street and Cartwright Street to achieve this.
This Master plan suggests the creation of rear access to the lot(s)
on Eleanor Street so as to have no vehicle access to lots along
Cartwright Street. In addition to create a mixed use village the
land use designations also need to be reconsidered to ensure that
a range of residential and commercial uses are included.
Round
Square
Sphere
Cylinder
and what could be...
The planters can be revitalised by renovating them to
incorporate a precinct theme and colour scheme. Or
alternatively a shift to permanent themed plantings
within the road corridor.
Pot Planter Revitalisation could be achieved through a good
clean-up, brush of bright paint; applying a precinct themed
stainless steel wrap; and by replanting pots with appropriate
feature plants. The Lannercost round planters, being most
numerous, can be placed along the footpaths both sides and
Lannercost Round
Tully Square
length of Lannercost St. Each planter’s wrap can depict local
heritage icons. The Tully square planters all need to be relocated
to the Tully St upgrade and used to frame the pedestrian linkage
leading through to (and from) TYTO Precinct. Each planter’s
wrap gives the name and illustrates a local bird likely to be
discovered at TYTO. Lastly, the Herbert sphere and cylinder are
to be situated in the Herbert St youth space. Both adorned with
inspiring iconography and encouraging words of wisdom. Paced
at equal distances apart all the renovated planters will add colour
and vibrancy to the streetscape.
Herbert Sphere
Herbert Cylinder
Planters renovation designed by Danelle Masters
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15
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
STREET BENCH SEATING
FOOTPATHS
What is….
What is….
Ingham’s street bench seating is presently a bit drab and in need of a make-over. There is a variety of styles set out with no particular
consistency to placement and often located beyond of shop awnings which means people get wet when it rains. There are 30 benches
located between Lannercost and Herbert Streets (approx.*).
A strong desire to see Ingham’s main street footpaths cleaned and improved was expressed by the whole community. Below are some
images of the current condition of footpaths.
Single slat bench
Traditional concrete
Traditional plastic (large variety)
Lannercost Street Footpaths
Modern slat bench
Photos courtesy of Danelle Masters
Photos courtesy of Danelle Masters
The modern slat benches are few in number though the most visually pleasing and comfortable. They could be best appreciated at the
covered crossing in Lannercost St. The traditional concrete and plastic benches can be relocated to Rotary Park and down through
Herbert St, as they are more in keeping with outdoor environmental demands. The traditional concrete benches can be renovated with a
clean-up and painted to match the chosen colour theme, becoming an inviting point of relaxation. The single slat timber benches which
have supporting legs in a ‘branch’ design can be renovated to symbolise ‘coral’ and incorporated into the beach theme chosen for the
Cartwright St precinct.
What could be….
and what could be….
Photo courtesy of
Danelle Masters
Upgrade designed
by Danelle Masters
New bench seating is required for Lannercost St along the footpaths, offering both comfort and street appeal while connecting to the
precinct’s local heritage theme.
New furniture // Herbert Sphere 4 seater
Could be placed in the Herbert youth
space. Produced using concrete, timber and
composite materials that are colour matched.
Lannercost Street Footpaths
New furniture // Cane cutters bench for
Lannercost St footpaths
Future footpath upgrades should seek to use locally sourced materials. Where possible mosaic plaques should be inlaid into
pavement depicting stories of local history and local buildings.
These Cane cutter benches highlight the long
history Ingham has with the sweet grass.
The blade made of slab concrete with incised
script and matching green edge, the handle is
a shaped slab of timber. Seating 4+ people.
Herbert Street Precinct
Future footpath upgrades should seek to use locally sourced
materials.
Cartwright Street Footpaths
The footpath treatment should have an Indigenous influenced
marine theme.
Sphere 4 seater and Cane Cutters Bench designed by Danelle Masters
16
Upgrade designed by Danelle Masters
17
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
RUBBISH BINS
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
PARK FURNITURE
What is…..
Rubbish bins are an important design element to any streetscape,
when well-placed they enable a clean and tidy town. It is
recommended that a new bin design be installed to main streets
and all existing bins, (except the silver modern design - 2 off),
be removed and donated to community groups. There is also a
recycle program operating with purpose large bins dedicated to
this task, these bins could be made more attractive to promote
the recycle cause.
Street rubbish bins
What is….
The open space from the Southern end
of Herbert Street (including Rotary Park)
provides for a shady area and several places
to gather and socialise. This section of
Herbert Street is segments as follows:
1. Palm Creek
2. Rotary Park
3. Herbert Street Median
Ingham Boulevard
Orange bin
Wheelie bin blue lid
Green bin
Wheelie bin red lid
Silver modern bin
And what could be….
New street rubbish bins can be built using stainless steel wraps
depicting precinct themes and colours or a generic foliage theme.
The street bins can be a single rubbish bin or double for recycling.
The existing large recycle bins can be rejuvenated with effective
message posters while on the back and sides they can promote
photographically the region’s attractions such as ‘Wallaman Falls’.
Palm Creek
Palm Creek is the central open
space spine that traverses
from the western side of town
through to the east and up to
Cartwright Street. This creek
and its associated open space
Palm Creek Overflow
values provide a corridor to
access the centre of town and the north south open space spine
in Herbert Street. Most of the social infrastructure that is used
by young people in town can be easily accessed via Palm Creek
and the development of this space to be an access corridor and
naturally flowing creek will enhance all of these connections.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park is in need of landscaping, and the park furniture and
iconography is in need of a good clean-up and repaint. There are
numerous existing park features that require work such as: the
Maraka stage floor, columns and concrete namesake could be
painted and planted; the street furniture such as the traditional
concrete and plastic bench seats from Lannercost St can be
relocated to the Herberts St parks and central medium nature
reserves. At present the park street lights are not located along
the existing pathway and should be aligned.
Rotary Park Furniture and Iconography
Youth Design
JCU will undulate a collaborative research project with the youth
and youth service prviders in Ingham to create suitable design
elements within the Ingham Boulevard. The project will focus
on seating, infrastructure and recreation facilities that are fit for
purpose and respond to the range of intended uses.
Ro tary bench
Round picnic
Traditional plastic
Youth Space
The area of space to the northern end of Herbert Street is utilised
by young people as a place to gather. The design of this space
is not conducive to making the space comfortable, nor does it
reflect the design that suits the purpose (use). The roof structures
of the shelter shed do not extend to protect from rain and any
structures need to reflect use and weather. It was also noted
that this area was the only free wifi access point (provided by
McDonalds) and may explain why this space is used by the youth
of Ingham.
And what could be….
Palm Creek
The proposed CBD concept Master plan makes provision for the
eventual closure of Palm Terrace and the road area rehabilitated
for inclusion in Rotary Park. This closure has many benefits
notwithstanding the following:
• Contiguous open space (not broken by road traffic)
• Improved water flow to alleviate Palm Creek flooding events
• Connectivity throughout Palm Creek and up
to Cartwright precinct
Current Visitors Information Board
The connectivity will be achieved through a renamed Serpentine
Circuit and will possess an Indigenous theme throughout. This
circuit has not been designed or a concept plan developed as
there is insufficient information regarding the aspirations of the
Indigenous residents of Hinchinbrook to share their stories and
histories in this area.
Rotary Park
This section of the open space includes a toilet block, children’s
playground and park furniture of various themes and design. The
theme for Rotary park is Public Art. The park area has wide open
spaces that are ideal for large temporary public art exhibitions.
These will increase the interaction between the locals and their
open space and serve as an eye catching attraction for those
travelling from Townsville to Cairns.
The community has also identified the need to present
information about the many attractions that the shire possesses.
18
Maraka Stage and namesake
New Visitors Information Board
Visitors Board design by Danelle Masters
19
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
UTILITY BOXES
What is….
Numerous utility boxes (electrical, drain access etc.) are scatted throughout the town that do
not contribute to the overall aesthetic quality that is sought from the Master Plan.
And what could be…
These utility boxes can become the host for many spectacular photographic displays depicting the local area attractions. Local
photographer could contribute images that can be attached to the large surfaces that the built boxes provide. Lighting at the base would
add to the evening streetscape while extending the advertising and promotional impact of the local attractions.
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Landscape
Design Strategy
Background
Landscaping in the wet tropics provides opportunities to bring the unique natural attributes of
the region into the urban centre. The design of the landscaping elements and species selection
can create linkages to and from the natural to the urban spaces; provide shade and reduce
urban temperatures; add colour; and compliment street furniture and retail design.
The aims of the Landscape Design Strategy are to:
• Reinforce the CBD as a place to shop, do business and
socialise;
• Enhance the attractiveness & convenience for visitors to stop
for a longer break on the way to Cairns, Townsville and the
falls; and
• Enhance the attractiveness and attractions for visitors to stay
overnight or longer (such as a weekend trip from Townsville
or ‘Grey Nomads’ touring).
Creating Strategic Landscape
linkages to build visitor numbers
20
Issues
The current road design and alignment encourages an efficient
transfer of vehicles through the township of Ingham. This
efficient road alignment fails to recognise that the open space
that is included into the road alignment creates a natural spine
that is valued by both residents and visitors. This natural spine
supports the linkages throughout the four precincts of the
CBD and its design is critical to achieving the Ingham identity,
creating legibility for pedestrians; connecting one place or
precinct to another (ie transparency); supporting and enhancing
the complexity of the townscape and most critically creating
a coherent structure that looks appealing and cared for by
the residents. At present visitors are left with an impression
that the highway literally sweeps through the town. The road
design features those being the width of the road and the
curved alignment of the Townsville Road /Lannercost Street
intersection, while may be efficient for traffic movements, does
little to encourage travellers to stop. These current design features
in combination with the empty (some decaying) buildings along
Herbert Street and the fast food outlets at the north of the car
dependent Herbert street precinct such as McDonalds and KFC
leave the visitor with the impression that Ingham is a place to
pass through quickly rather than linger.
This is most unfortunate as many of the interesting features of
the town are not experienced by visitors. These severed features
include the TYTO Precinct, the TYTO Cultural Precinct, the
Lannercost shopping strip, the interesting array of buildings in
the side streets, the village atmosphere of Cartwright Street, and
the Palm Creek / Botanic Gardens parklands.
Strategic Direction
The key strategy for Hinchinbrook Shire Council is to get visitors in a
frame of mind where they slow down and stop and linger in Ingham
rather than rush through on their way to somewhere else. To
achieve this there needs to be key indicators in the landscape, retail
design and street furniture that there are items of interest worth
stopping for. Visitors also need to have time to make this decision as
they approach or drive into town without having to backtrack.
This can be assisted by landscape elements at key points and
linking together areas that visitors may go or be promoted to go.
21
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Key Landscape Signature Elements
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Key Landscape Linkages to be developed
Welcome to Ingham signage
TYTO > Lannercost Street
Situation
The large welcome signs are one of the first impressions of the
town and are combined with generous landscape plantings.
These plantings however need some simplification to make a
bolder and more arrestingly statement.
Situation
The walk along the boardwalk from the visitor centre to the
precinct is a great experience though the tree tops. The setting
of the precinct buildings on the flood immunity mound gives
a great vantage point of the town, however this view shed is
dominated by wide road pavement, car parks and back of shops.
This currently does not encourage visitors to the precinct from
the visitor centre to venture further.
Strategy
To replant to central wedge of the garden beds to a bolder scheme
that is more legible to the speed of the traffic.
Initiative
Plant a central wedge with a large mass planting of Ixora ‘Sunkist’
to highlight the Ingham text. It also sets one of the planting
themes for Ingham - the use of Ixora, a plant that comes in a
range of sizes and flower colours that seems to do particularly
well in Ingham.
TYTO Precinct
Situation
The dual carriageway along Townsville Road with its wide road
reserve tends to move visitors pass the TYTO Visitor Centre
before they have the opportunity to turn off the main road.
Strategy
To highlight the presence of the Precinct, visitor centre and the
TYTO Precinct by better placed signage and additional planting
that is complementary to the wetland. The planting of Foxtail
Grass in the drainage swale provides a good reference point for
other roadside planting along Townsville Road. It evokes the
grasses in the Precinct and used in mass display it is a point of
difference from other more domestic landscapes along this road.
Initiative
Plant up more drainage swales with ornamental grasses such
as the Foxtail Grass and wetland species such as the local
Melaleuca.
22
Strategy
To encourage pedestrian and traffic movement from the visitor
centre and the TYTO Precinct down to the Lannercost Street
shopping precinct. This movement is an important link to also
encourage visitors and locals to make the short distance from
Lannercost to the precinct.
Lannercost > Herbert Street /
Townsville Road
Herbert Street > Cartwright
Street
Situation
Currently the vegetation in the median strips of Lannercost
Street and Herbert Street in the vicinity of the Townsville Road,
while presenting a tropical image, unfortunately obscures sight
lines from the main road down Lannercost. This vegetation also
partially obscures views across from one side of Lannercost to the
other.
Situation
Currently the streetscape is visually dominated by the wide main
road except for the Rotary Park section were the impressive
size of the mature Rain Trees dominate. The opportunities for
street tree planting on the footpaths are likely to be limited by
Department of Main Roads constraints with respect to roadside
plantings and awnings.
One of the most charming attributes of the Lannercost Street
precinct is the mature Fig trees in the street and the wide grass
median strips.
Strategy
Reinforce the significant amount of amenity and shade provided
by Rotary Park’s trees through the infilling of gaps in the centre
with River Cherries, an Australian rainforest native that give a
deeply shaded canopy without the oversize constraints of the
exotic Rain Trees. The use of a local tree expresses Palm Creek
and emphasizes the connection to the land of the regions First
Nation peoples.
Initiatives
Develop a strong, attractive and easily legible link between the
precinct and Lannercost Street by landscape upgrades along Tully
Street and McIlwraith Streets.
Strategy
To improve the visibility down the street from the Townsville
Road intersection along Lannercost Street. Improved visibility
will encourage visitors to the stop in the shopping precinct
while upgrading the amenity for locals. The existing structure of
Fig trees and a central green space provides the framework for
ongoing work.
Tully Street upgrade initiative
Initiatives
The key initiative in Tully Street is providing a generous wide
footpath and associated wetland style plantings along Tully
Street. While maintaining the current ability for oversize vehicles
to manoeuvre the Tully Street corners the proposed landscape
link would be a wide meandering path through bands of Matt
Rush and Foxtail Grasses. This would continue the presence of
the Precinct into the town. Tree plantings of Golden Pendas along
the eastern side of the path would be located to provide shade
without compromising the oversize vehicle movements.
McIlwraith Street upgrade
initiatives
The streetscape along McIlwraith Street could be made a lot more
attractive by street tree plantings and some strategic planting of
trees in the Coles car park highlighting the entrance to the arcade
that links through to Lannercost Street. A suitable tree here
would be to continue the Golden Penda plantings proposed for
Tully Street that can be pruned under the power lines if required.
Another key initiative is the extension of the footpath along the
northern side of the street linking the TYTO crossover.
Vegetation Management initiatives
Selectively remove or prune vegetation that obscures views down
and across the street. Generally the problematic vegetation would
be in the 1.2 to 3m range that currently obscures eye height views.
This includes the removal of bushy shrubs and trees that may
be reaching over maturity.. Other vegetation such as Hibiscus
could be pruned to about a third of their height. This could be an
immediate initiative to help improve views, amenity and security.
Fig Tree retention and management
The mature Fig trees in Lannercost Street are one of the more
tropically evocative characteristics of the town. Unfortunately
a number of these trees seem to be in poor health likely largely
due the amount of road pavement up to the base of trees as the
street’s car parking extended. To maintain these trees as an asset
of the town’s amenity it would be advisable to remove a car park
on either side of the tree and replace the bitumen with some
improved soil, fertiliser and mulch. Originally the trees were
pruned and this practice could be returned to help manage the
size and health of trees.
New urban design and landscape works
The centre island of Lannercost Street has the potential to be a
vital hub of the town’s retail and social life. It is wide enough to
develop as a series of outdoor rooms with a range of activities
such chess, bocce, outdoor dining, meeting friends and minding
children while others shop. The design of a true piazza would
reference Ingham’s deep Italian heritage and its relationship with
its sister city Collazzone.
The upgrade of the northern end of the central lawn median
strip as a youth precinct reinforces an existing use of the park
and makes the town more vital for youth. This could be further
enhanced through the development of a wifi hub throughout
Herbert Street, which may encourage residents and visitors to
stop, eat and check details of Ingham’s various attractions.
Initiatives
It is important to maintain the continued use of Rotary Park as a
rest spot and event space for residents and visitors.
Infill plantings of shade trees such as River Cherries to be
considered in consultation with DMR. This may necessitate the
construction of a crash barrier to protect users of the open space..
The development of a youth precinct is be further explored with
ongoing consultations.
Cartwright Street
Situation
Cartwright Street has elements of country town charm and character
such as the Station Hotel and the cluster of shops with awnings and
verandahs. This charm however is dissipated by the business of the
street’s traffic at school drop off and pick up times. Located in one
of the highest areas in town the Cartwright Street precinct has the
potential for infill housing and higher density living.
Strategy
Improve the amenity of shopping by planting street trees to
provide for some visual separation between pedestrians and traffic.
Making the street more pedestrian friendly for locals, in particular
the young and the elderly, through the construction of footpaths
to create linkages along Cartwright Street to Herbert Street.
23
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Planting Themes
Initiatives
Construct a footpath along the western side of the street. Plant
store trees at the intersections of cross streets in consultation
with DMR as a crash barriers / tree guards may be required to
protect against vehicular traffic.
Palm Creek
Situation
Palm Creek is a significant townscape element in Ingham and
has important connections to the region’s First Nation People.
Strategy
Reinforce the potential of a landscape link along the creek side
through the town that both improves connectivity and gives
a linear location for the telling of the First Nation People’s
history and continued connection to the town and region. Prime
locations for this interpretation would be through the use of
public art in Rotary Park and in the creek side Botanic Gardens.
Initiatives
The closure of the crossover lane beside Rotary Park would give
an opportunity to plant up with canopy rainforest trees such
as the River Cherry to help express were Palm Creek crosses
Herbert Street.
LANNERCOST STREET
TYTO and Townsville Road
Code
Precinct and native trees.
Grasses and rushes to evoke wetland landscape with Paperbark
Trees as a backdrop
Trees
McIlraith Street
Native trees for shade.
Golden Pendas for shade trees pruned for under powerlines.
Trees continued into the Coles car park linking to the arcade
entrance.
FIC ben
1166 INGHAM CBD // REVITALIASTION - 150327
Botanical Name
Common Name
Ficus benjamina
Weeping Fig
Ptychosperma elegans
Solitaire Palm
Palms
PTY ele
Ficus benjamina / Weeping Fig
Shrubs and Ground Cover
Tully Street
Wetland rushes and native trees
A grassy walk that evokes the Precinct with flowering native
shade trees.
Lannercost Street
Cosmopolitan style
The European heritage expressed by the continued use of Fig
trees combined with clipped borders and hedges of Ixora and
Murraya. Planters of topiary Figs with coloured foliage under
planting.
Herbert Street
Shaded boulevard
The significant shade trees of Rotary Park continued with River
Cherries along the central grassed median strip parkland. The
spreading dome of the shade trees accented with the vertical
geometry of Indian Mast Trees. Dwarf Ixoras in planters continue
flowering colour.
GAR v RAD
Gardenia jasminoides ‘Radicans’
Gardenia Radicans
IXO v KAMIxora coccinea ‘Kampoons Pride’
Kampoons Pride Ixora
IXO v MALIxora coccinea ‘Malay Pink’
Malay Pink Ixora
MUR v MIN
Mini Murraya
Murraya paniculatum ‘Minimin’
Ptychosperma elegans / Solitaire Palm
Planters
FIC ben
Ficus benjamina
Weeping Fig
HEM v DWA Hemigraphis alternataDwarf Hemigraphis
PLE var
Plectranthus amboinicus variegated
Spanish Thyme
Gardenia jasminoides ‘Radicans’ / Gardenia Radicans
Cartwright Street
Comfortable environment
Street shaded by Tuckeroos, a hardy native.
24
Hemigraphis alternata / Dwarf Hemigraphis
Plectranthus amboinicus variegated / Spanish Thyme
Ixora coccinea ‘Kampoons Pride’ / Kampoons Pride Ixora
Ficus benjamina / Weeping Fig - pot
Murraya paniculatum ‘Minimin’ / Mini Murraya
Ixora coccinea ‘Malay Pink’ / Malay Pink Ixora
25
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
TULLY & McILWRAITH STREET
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
1166 INGHAM CBD // REVITALIASTION - 150327
Code
Botanical Name
Common Name
Trees
XAN chr
HERBERT STREET
Code
1166 INGHAM CBD // REVITALIASTION - 150327
Botanical Name
Common Name
Trees
Xanthostemon chrysanthus
Golden Penda
POL lon
Polyathia longifoliaIndian Mast Tree
SYZ tie
Syzygium tierneyanium
River Cherry
Shrubs and Ground Cover
Xanthostemon chrysanthus / Golden Penda
LOM hys
Lomandra hystrix
Matt Rush
Palms
PTY ele
Polyathia longifolia / Indian Mast Tree
Ptychosperma elegans
Solitaire Palm
Planters
IXO v AUSIxora coccinea ‘Aussie Gold’
Aussie Gold Ixora
IXO v SUNIxora coccinea ‘Sunkist’Ixora Sunkist
Lomandra hystrix / Matt Rush
Syzygium tierneyanium / River Cherry
CARTWRIGHT STREET
Code
Cupaniopsis anacardioides / Tuckeroo
Botanical Name
Common Name
Cupaniopsis anacardioides
Tuckeroo
Trees
CUP ana
Ptychosperma elegans / Solitaire Palm
Planters
IXO v AUSIxora coccinea ‘Aussie Gold’
Aussie Gold Ixora
IXO v PYGIxora coccinea ‘Pygmy Pink’
Pygmy Pink Ixora
Ixora coccinea ‘Aussie Gold’ / Aussie Gold Ixora
Ixora coccinea ‘Aussie Gold’ / Aussie Gold Ixora
Ixora coccinea ‘Pygmy Pink’ / Pygmy Pink Ixora
26
Ixora coccinea ‘Sunkist’ / Ixora Sunkist
27
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Style Guide
• Early concrete construction is widespread in North
Queensland because of its ability to withstand cyclones.
Strategy
• The Ingham Post Office (1935) has a colonial neo-classical
style typical of institutional buildings of the period with
thick square columns and an abstracted open pediment. Its
porthole windows show a hint of Art Deco influence.
Existing Built Form & Character
Ingham has gone through four significant phases of development
following European settlement:
• The Pioneer Years (1870 – 1900)
• The Early Years (1900 – 1915)
• The Inter-war Years (1920 – 1935)
• The Post-war Years (1945 – 1970)
These periods have resulted in city fabric with a distinctive
patchwork of architectural styles. The current character of
the town tells the story of social and economic development
in Ingham, from the arrival of Italian migrants to the soldier
settlements of the post-war years.
Early Years (1900 - 1915)
• The town continues to grow on the strength of the sugar
industry, one of the largest in Australia.
• In 1901 the town population is 375 excluding “Malays,
Kanakas and others”. Ingham is described in the 1903
Australian Handbook as having “three hotels, three churches,
two banks, a parsonage, a court house, police barracks, a gaol,
customs quarters, a hospital, a state school, a telegraph office,
a school of arts and three stores”.
• Pioneer William Ingham founds a sugar plantation and mill in
the area.
• The birth of the Ingham sugar industry follows as settlers get
down to business growing and crushing sugarcane.
• Cheap labour is needed and an Italian migration programme
provides “appropriate labour skills” to the new frontier. 335
Italians arrive, mostly from Sicily.
• The majority of the frontier structures in town are built of tin
and timber and have since been lost or destroyed by fire.
28
• Later Art Deco influence is evident in the geometric concrete
facades and stepped parapets of the shops on Herbert Street
and the J.L Kelly Memorial Theatre.
• This period saw unprecedented growth in Ingham with the
Italian population building on the early Italian pioneers.
Nearly half the cane farms are owned by Italians.
• The sugar industry continues to progress from 40 000 tons of
cane in 1885 to over 245 000 tons in 1933.
• In 1919 the railway is opened to Townsville, further driving
the population boom.
• The first decades see the rebuilding of many of the towns
pubs, previously destroyed. Examples include the Station
Hotel (1925) and the Royal Hotel (1920).
• The ‘Italian Renaissance’ in Ingham. Italians rose to
prominence in the community, business and politics. Their
influence can be seen in the ornate mausoleums of the New
Ingham Cemetery (1952).
• The Art Deco forms move with times with the streamlined
international style of Mrs Frasers Grandchildren’s shops (
1950) With its suspended canter levered awning.
• Shops on Lannercost Street (1925) show typical federation
style of architecture with filigree on verandah balcony
and timber decoration applied to the decorated masonry
federation parapets.
The Inter War Years (1920 - 1935)
The Post War Years (1945 - 1970)
• International modernism arrives in Queensland tempered
by an interest in local building features such as verandah’s
and natural timbers. The Ingham Court House (1947) in an
example.
• Frank Frasers Store (1907) is one of the oldest buildings
still standing from this period. It has a handsome single
storey federation façade now with a cantilevered awning but
originally with a deep timber verandah.
Ingham does not have a built style or theme like some of its
neighbours (e.g. the Art-Deco of Innisfail) because it didn’t
experience a single construction phase. Instead, development
took place in waves with architecture reflecting the style of time.
What unites these different periods of development is each
adapted the architectural style of the day to Ingham’s unique
tropical setting.
Pioneer Years (1870 - 1900)
• During this period the Italian migrant influence came over
the town. This is evident in the use of decorative patterned
concrete floor tiling through many of the buildings and
the Italianate neoclasical style of some of the surrounding
buildings like The Italian Hospital built in 19
• The introduction of face brickwork of several of the
accommodation buildings like Lee’s hotel (1960) marks the 60’s
Ingham Today
To build on the character of Ingham new development doesn’t
have to recreate a particular style. Contemporary buildings are
a natural addition to the patchwork of architectural styles and
eras that make up the urban fabric.
However, new built form should be sympathetic to the scale,
proportions, roof forms, architectural features and signage of the
existing built form. Continuity can be achieved through the use
of climatically appropriate devices like deep verandah’s, large
awnings and highly articulated facades with deep window reveals
and sun-shading.
The existing urban fabric should be refreshed to better reflect
the original design intent individual buildings. The following set
outs how this can be achieved with the preservation of existing
buildings and insertion of any future redevelopment particularly
within the Lannercost Street precinct, although these High Street
urban principles can be applied to both Herbert and Cartwright
Streets where less original built fabric exists.
29
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
Ingham CBD CONCEPT MASTER PLAN
StreetScape
Street Activation
Built Form
L im it s ig na g e t o f a s c ia
M a int a in a nd e nha nc e
S im ple pa r a pe t f o r m , a v o id
E nha nc e D e c o r a t io n b y c o lo ur ing
R e ins t a t e o r ig ina l pa int f inis he s
R e v e a l e x is t ing o r ig ina l
S im ple t in r o o f
a w ning a s o ppo s e d t o a ll
b uilding ide nt if ic a t io n
pit c he d r o o f s in m a in s t r e e t
in c o nt r a s t t o t he b uilding
(f o r pa int c o lo ur s r e f e r t o
b uilding ide nt if ic a t io n
s he e t ing t o v e r a nda hs
o v e r b uilding
s ig na g e
f r o nt a g e s
s pe c if ic pe r io d c o lo ur g uide s )
s ig na g e
a nd a w ning s
S im ple
V e r a nda h w it h f e a t ur e po s t s .
R e lo c a t e v is ib le A C pla nt
B a llus t r a t ing
(P o s t s t o pr e v e nt v e r a nda h
f r o m f r o nt f a c a de s
c o lla ps ing in t he e v e nt o f c a r
w indo w s t a g e a w ning
Signage should be limited to the face of awnings and
under awing box signage. Whole building signage that
conceals the existing heritage built form should be
avoided. Excess signage should be removed to avoid
visual clutter and any original building identification
signage should be preserved and enhanced.
Shop fronts should be well lit with the produce/
product of the shop clearly on display. Under
awning light and simple boxed signage will provide
information to pedestrians whilst providing a safe well
lit space to move through. Dark spaces, with closed or
painted windows, do not provide the level of natural
security that an open, transparent, activated frontage
provides.
& v e r a nda h he ight s
C o ns is t a nt a w ning
S ingle S t o r e y
Hig h P a r a pe t F o r m
T w o S t o r e y He ight
c o llis io n)
L A R G E S T R E E T F A C A D E F O R O N L Y S IG N IF IC A N T B UIL D IN G S
19 2. 5
M IN IM IS E B UIL T F R O N T A G E
S im ple ha ng ing b o x
P r o v ide g o o d lig ht ing t o
V e r a nda h inf ill o v e r
unde r a w ning s ig na g e
unde r a w ning t o s ho p t o
f o o t pa t h
G E N E R A L L Y T O S T A N D A R D L O T W ID T H
19. 0 7
F E D E R A T IO N F IL IG R E E
IT A L IN A T E N E O C L A S S IC A L
a c t iv a t e s t r e e t f r o nt
19 .35
AR T DE C O
19 2 5
.
Built Frontage
The existing streetscape has a constant street setback and building height. This is illustrated by
the high parapet forms of both single and two storey development as indicated. Any new infill
development should maintain similar building forms and the zero street setback typical of this
High Street precinct.
The streetscape already provides extensive awnings or verandas
that give continuous weather protection to pedestrian movement.
This should be maintained and enhanced where possible. If
appropriate, infill verandas can be accommodated over the
footpath providing a further degree of building articulation. The
awnings have a constant height and scale for the majority of
existing development. The awnings are supported on posts or
canter levered but has a similar scale in their width and depth of
the front fascia.
Heritage Values
The existing streetscape is made up of a variety of
buildings with different heritage values. Ingham is
fortunate to have a high level of existing heritage
building stock and is in a position to make this a
real asset to the community. It is this mixed use
and style that gives Ingham its unique place and
character. The high level of preservation of the
existing high street through the maintenance of
the existing built fabric and then introducing ways
of providing simple interoperation will enhance
the experience of both shoppers and visitors to the
township.
HOTEL SKETCHES // Total Project Group Architects
The majority of existing buildings have a high degree of
modulation of the facades. This provides interest and a
vocabulary of built form that is very pedestrian/human in
scale. The majority of buildings range between 6 to 20 metre
frontages. The few larger buildings like the two hotels have
highly decorated facades incorporating verandas and timber
balustrade treatments.
The proposed landscape vegetation and street works
will improve the opportunity for buildings to be clearly
visible for both passing vehicles and pedestrians, thus
minimising the need for signage that only clutters the
space.
C L A S S IC A L P A R A P E T
HIG H S T R E E T F E D E R A T IO N
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To ensure the ongoing viability of the High Street
it is critical that the space is habited and active.
This activation is self-fulfilling, as the more active
the more inviting and attractive the space is for
users to engage with the more successful it will be.
Advertising and signage clutter do not themselves
provide activation, and can sometimes create a
deterrent.
New development should be limited in height, scale
and frontage and provide awnings or verandas to be
consistent with these parameters. Large long unbroken
facades, typical of big box modern warehouse
shopping centres, should be avoided as inconstant
with these principals.
Existing buildings should be maintained and or
restored in manner faithful to the period they
were originally built. The original colour palate of
structures, where known, should be reinstated. Overall
paint colours should be period appropriate.
Building on the town’s strong heritage-informed
community, the history of the town should form part
of the visitor experience. This can be built on the
already exiting heritage walks with simple plaques and
footpath inlays telling the storey of the town.
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