Townsville mayoral aspirant Joanne Keune has laid out an ambitious blueprint to breathe new life into the city's central business district, declaring the CBD's revitalisation as her top priority if elected.
A Fresh Vision for the Heart of Townsville
The independent candidate, who previously served as the council's community health and environment committee chair, believes Townsville's city centre requires urgent attention and strategic investment. Her comprehensive plan addresses multiple facets of urban development, from public safety to economic stimulation.
Safety and Security: The Foundation of Renewal
Keune identifies safety as the cornerstone of her CBD transformation strategy. "We need to make our city centre safe for everyone - residents, visitors, and business owners alike," she emphasised during her policy announcement.
Her approach includes enhanced lighting throughout the CBD, increased security patrols, and improved surveillance systems to create an environment where people feel comfortable day and night.
Economic Revitalisation Through Business Support
The mayoral candidate proposes several initiatives to stimulate economic activity in the city centre:
- Streamlined approval processes for new businesses
- Incentives for property owners to activate empty shopfronts
- Support for local entrepreneurs and small businesses
- Creation of pop-up retail spaces to test new concepts
Urban Design and Public Spaces
Keune's vision extends to the physical transformation of the CBD's public realm. She advocates for:
- Greening initiatives with more trees and pocket parks
- Pedestrian-friendly streetscapes with wider footpaths
- Outdoor dining areas and public seating
- Cultural installations and public art projects
Building on Past Experience
With her background in local government and community development, Keune brings practical experience to her ambitious plans. "I understand how council works and what's needed to get things done," she stated, positioning herself as a candidate who can deliver tangible results rather than just promises.
A Collaborative Approach to City Building
The candidate stressed that successful CBD transformation requires partnership between council, business owners, property developers, and the community. "This isn't something council can do alone - we need everyone at the table," Keune remarked, signalling her intention to foster collaborative governance if elected.
Her announcement comes at a critical time for Townsville, as the city continues its post-pandemic recovery and seeks to redefine its urban core for future generations.
