Mareeba CBD Project Blueprint

Project Blueprint will develop a shared vision for the future of Mareeba’s main shopping area.

Project Blueprint will deliver a precinct plan that directs the future of Mareeba’s CBD.

Construction ready designs and plans will be prepared to address stormwater drainage issues, carparking, accessibility for people walking and cycling (including people with physical and vision impairments), public toilets and amenities such as shade, seating, lighting and night-time activation.

It will plan the connectivity between the CBD and surrounding streets to support business and job growth. The precinct will be future-proofed and enhance the health and wellbeing of the Mareeba community. It will be an attractive, safe space the community and visitors want to spend time in.

Mareeba Chamber of Commerce is a major partner and will be integral in gathering business community input.

Funded by the Australian Government’s Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program (RPPP).

What will Project Blueprint tackle?

Project Blueprint will develop construction ready plans that consider:

  • stormwater drainage
  • lighting (underground power)
  • pedestrian accessibility and crossings
  • accessibility for people with physical disabilities
  • accessibility for people with vision impairment
  • footpaths
  • active transport
  • car parking
  • security
  • public toilet facilities
  • trees, seating and shade
  • general amenity and activation

Is Project Blueprint only Byrnes Street?

No. Project Blueprint will cover Railway Avenue, Byrnes Street, Walsh Street and Constance Street, between Herberton and Lloyd Streets.

The project covers this large area to manage the stormwater and direct the water flow where it needs to go.

How long will Project Blueprint take?

Project Blueprint is a big undertaking.

  • Stage 1 – Current State: The current state of the area will be reviewed. Issues and opportunities will be identified.
  • Stage 2 – Draft Precinct Plan: High level plans developed. Stormwater management plan prepared.
  • Stage 3 – Prioritisation and Implementation: Draft prioritised Precinct Plan, Implementation Plan, Monitoring Plan and funding strategy will be developed.
  • Stage 4 – Detailed Design: Detailed designs and high-level costings prepared.
  • Stage 5 – Final Plans: The Precinct Plan, Implementation Plan, Monitoring Plan and Funding strategy will be finalised. The project is scheduled to be completed by early 2026.
  • Next Step: Secure funding to deliver Project Blueprint priorities.

How will the community provide input into Project Blueprint?

Comprehensive community engagement is integral to Project Blueprint.  This includes a Stakeholder Reference Group, consisting of local community members and other agency representatives.

In June 2025, Council hosted a series of community engagement sessions at a pop-up shop in Byrnes St, over 200 people dropped in to provide their feedback during these sessions.  An online community survey was conducted in June / July 2025 and over 190 responses were received.  Community feedback is currently being incorporated into planning.

You still have an opportunity to help shape a vibrant, sustainable town centre that reflects the needs and aspirations of our community, whether you’re a resident, business owner or visitor your input matters.

Further Community Engagement Sessions will be held on Thursday, 6 November and Friday, 7 November 2025.  Times to be announced closer to the date.

Who are members of the Stakeholder Reference Group?

Members of the SWG include representation from Mareeba Chamber of Commerce (MCOC), Disability Advocate, CBD business operators, Collaborating for Community Safety Group, CBD residents, community members, Traditional Owners, Queensland Police Service, Mareeba Shire Local Tourism Organisation (LTO), Councillors and Council Officers.

The primary purpose of the Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group is to foster collaboration, and build trust, ensuring that Project Blueprint is informed by the needs of the community. The Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group is an expert advisory committee to Council under the Local Government Regulation 2012. The Blueprint Stakeholder Reference Group is not a decision-making body, and it is not a requirement that consensus always be reached between members on issues discussed.

The purpose of the Group is to:

    • Provide information, advice and recommendations for Council consideration on the development of construction ready plans to address pedestrian accessibility and amenity issues in the Mareeba
    • Assist in increasing community awareness about the project and highlight relevant issues.
    • Provide the opportunity for stakeholders to be consulted about and be involved in the design process.
    • Identify opportunities for future benefit of the Blueprint project

Terms of Reference