The work carried out within this updated version of the Masterplan responds to Toowoomba Growth projections which extend to 2051 and include Queensland State Government (i.e. ShapingSEQ 2023) targets, along with other investigations carried out by the team.

The Central Highfields Masterplan, however, is not limited to this timeframe, and subsequent Council decisions will be made in response to the continuously changing demographics, environmental and community needs. A masterplan allows for more strategic planning and higher-level details to be carried out in the future.

Work undertaken within this update of the Central Highfields Masterplan still responds and aligns with the Central Highfields Structure Plan which was developed in conjunction with the community in 2018, which can be found at www.yoursay.qld.au/HTC.

Your frequently asked questions:

• Why does the Masterplan focus on short-term growth rather than a 20–30+ year vision, given Highfields' projected expansion to 2051?
• How does the plan balance residential density with maintaining Highfields’ semi-rural character, ensuring sufficient commercial and civic space for long-term needs?
• What provisions exist for a future second town centre if commercial space proves insufficient, and why isn’t a staged town centre development prioritized?
• How does the plan support local employment opportunities and reduce commuter reliance on Toowoomba, and how will future population and traffic demands be managed?
• How will future amendments reflect evolving community needs?

The 2018 Masterplan which was developed with the community in a series of workshops featuring commercial/retail, mixed use and residential zoning/allocations. The layout of the masterplan is relatively similar, and the allocation of zonings has been clarified – particularly as the mixed-use component was unclear in its purpose and vision for future uses.

The provision of residential (whether medium density, or low density) areas will support the growing town centre area, support local businesses that are established and seeking to establish within the area with increased foot traffic, more street level interactions and reducing pressure on the road network for short vehicle trips.

A mix of housing provides options for young people starting in the housing market, those who can’t or don’t want to maintain a traditional large house, and those with different accommodation requirements.

Housing developers will still need to meet the planning scheme provisions and will be required to go through the required development approval process with Council. All new buildings will also be required to ensure that buildings comply with the Disability (access to Premise-Buildings) standards when they are constructed (during Building Works Applications).

Building heights in the future Town Centre have not yet been considered or determined. The indicative heights shown as a cross section on our presentation from 7 May 2025, are a possible outcome that could occur in the medium to longer term (say 10 to 15 years). Building heights will be subject to the requirements of the Planning Scheme at the time, and will need to be approved by the Council, through development assessment processes. As demonstrated through Council’s assessment of mid-rise development elsewhere in the region, Council is committed to facilitating positive building and urban design outcomes.

Using height for additional floor within the commercial and medium density residential zones, helps to preserve and best use open spaces for recreation and community purposes.

Your frequently asked questions:

• Why is there an increase in low-density residential zoning in Highfields when more commercial spaces, such as healthcare facilities and retail, are urgently needed?
• How does the current plan support small business owners, encourage walk-through traffic, and provide adequate commercial space, including big-box retailers and specialty stores?
• How does the proposed development protect Highfields’ established character, considering concerns about density, mixed-use areas, and maintaining a relaxed lifestyle?
• Why is high-rise development being proposed for Highfields, and how does this align with the regional planning intent and existing commercial precedents in Toowoomba?
• What provisions are being made for essential infrastructure, including a medical precinct, parking availability, social housing, and homelessness support?

Council does not determine which retailers, or commercial operators use the land. We can only ensure that the land is zoned for the intended uses and ensure they meet the requirements of the planning scheme (carparking, setback, landscaping).

Subject to the endorsement of the updated masterplan, the Council will start selling (otherwise known as divestment) the land in ‘management lots’ in stages. This will ensure the logical sequencing of development – striving for the vision that the masterplan will set.

The Central Highfields Masterplan is not the only commercially zone land within the Highfields area. There are areas of town centre zone suitable for development and sites where centre activities are currently operating in the Highfields area.

A general rule of thumb for retail in regional Australia is 1.0m2 to 1.5m2 of retail per person (supermarkets, specialty retail, medical and services). Using 2051 population of 33,439 and the higher rate of 1.5m2/person = 50,158m2 Gross Floor Area (GFA).

In the Town Centre within the drafted masterplan covers 32,500m2 (3.25ha), alternatively, if constructed with an average of three storeys and 70% site cover, it would allow for a gross floor area of about 68,000m2.

Your frequently asked questions:

• What types of retail shops are planned, and will there be enough commercial space to accommodate Highfields’ growing population, including major retailers like Kmart or Bunnings?
• Has TRC conducted or commissioned an independent study on future floor space requirements for hospitality, professional offices, retail, and healthcare?
• What provisions are being made for small businesses and youth-friendly facilities, ensuring opportunities for local entrepreneurs and entertainment options?
• If bulky goods retailers or large stores like Bunnings are included, how will traffic flow be managed, especially along major roads like Highfields Rd and New England Hwy?
• Is a medical precinct planned, and how will the balance between commercial and residential zoning impact safety, accessibility, and socioeconomic conditions?
• What future developments are planned for department stores, cinemas, cafes, and recreational spaces, and how can the community attract businesses like cinema to enhance the town’s dining and entertainment experience?

Council is not the developer of this land but will be responsible for the zoning areas that are released and when. However, Council is unable to review or formalise a process for the timing or staging of the release of the land to the open market without the Masterplan being adopted.

The next step will be the creation of a master lot subdivision, which creates large parcels that can be sold via an expression of interest and tender process. This EOI will ensure the development needs of the community and council's vision for the site can be delivered. Part of this process will include the logical and sequential delivery of infrastructure (roads, water and sewerage).

Your frequently asked questions:

• What factors influenced the decision to structure the masterplan for a large-scale development rather than a staged process that aligns with evolving community and commercial needs?
• How is Council balancing immediate development with the need to preserve land for future commercial and civic spaces to support Highfields’ long-term growth?
• What plans are in place to ensure fully serviced land is available for businesses, medical facilities, and other essential services?
• What is the expected timeframe for development, and how will decisions be made regarding the order of priorities for different land uses?
• How will Council incorporate community feedback into planning decisions, and is there an opportunity to revisit aspects of previous plans, including civic integration with parkland?
• Will land sales be structured to support long-term viability, and what conditions will be in place to ensure alignment with community needs?

The community consultation processes have been open to the Highfields Community, however to ensure Council gets the best possible outcomes for the community it is important to understand what we are proposing meets the current economic and market environment.

Council will not be the developer of this land. It is important to seek economic and investment feedback from market experts. This is not an unusual process to ensure commercial viability and realistic outcomes. We have sought to balance the values of the community against the feedback from this process.

From the feedback gathered since February 2025, the updated Masterplan will be presented to Council to consider for adoption.

Your frequently asked questions:

• How is Council ensuring that the Masterplan aligns with the long-term interests of residents, businesses, and broader community needs?
• How will Council manage land sales and development to prevent land banking while ensuring commercial spaces and civic infrastructure evolve alongside population growth?
• What factors influenced changes from the 2018 plan, and how does the updated Masterplan compare to previous commitments, zoning regulations, and the expectations set by past statements?
• What provisions have been made for wildlife protection, open spaces, and ensuring Highfields’ unique character is preserved in future development?
• What is the expected timeframe for development, including key milestones, planning scheme updates, building height constraints, and opportunities for younger community members to engage in the process?

Council is working to bring forward planning for infrastructure, which includes water, sewer and upgrades to Highfields Road intersections (Kratzke Road, O'Brien Road, Lauder Drive and Rogers Road). There will be additional information about these major works in late 2025.

Integration of public transport facilities, walking and bike networks will help with access for all residents, particularly those without access to a car (i.e. Youth, elderly and those who use mobility aids). This also provides more opportunities for more residents to reduce their daily car reliance. This improves traffic flow, reduces pressure on car parking and helps to promote a healthy lifestyle for residents.

In the coming year, the significant works for Highfields Road will ultimately improve safety and many of the traffic flow concerns raised. Advice for residents on traffic changes will be provided closer to these works commencing.

You asked:

Note: Many of the questions posed below are outside of the scope of the project, and some, like the North South Transport Corridor or the New England Highway are not managed by Council.

• How is Council addressing long-term traffic flow between Highfields and Toowoomba, including considerations for major roads, roundabouts, and public transport?
• What plans exist to improve key roads, intersections, and traffic coordination, ensuring the Highfields Road network supports population growth and business development?
• How is public transport integration being considered, and are there plans for cycling infrastructure to support active commuting?
• Will future development include solutions for parking shortages, including multi-storey parking and pedestrian-friendly access near commercial and civic areas?
• How is Council planning for increased water supply, sewer connectivity, and other essential services as Highfields continues to grow?

Council has been working with Queensland Fire Department (QFD) to find a suitable permanent, 24/7 fire station in Highfields area.

QFD is committed to working closely with the community to minimise any local impacts. This includes careful management of vehicle movements, limited use of sirens, and thoughtful station design to suit its surroundings.

The Queensland Government has the power to compulsorily acquire land for emergency services facilities, if an agreement with the Council (as landowner) cannot be reached. Council is committed towards working collaboratively with the Queensland Government to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

Your frequently asked questions:

• What led to changes in the fire station’s location plan?
• Has Council considered collocating emergency services, including fire, police, and ambulance, to enhance response efficiency and long-term planning?
• How will the station’s location impact congestion in the town centre, and would alternative sites—such as Highfields Road or the highway—better support vehicle movement?
• Has water pressure and fire response infrastructure been factored into planning, especially with potential high-rise construction?

Further planning, with opportunity for community feedback, is required for the open space and public use areas.

Council has taken note of the community's desires for open space functions. These comments will be reviewed and balanced against site constraints, standards of service and the best outcome for the community as a whole. These processes also will incorporate more detailed studies.

Your frequently asked questions:

• How does the plan ensure the protection of existing green areas, including maintaining a wildlife corridor along Clarke Road and preserving native vegetation?
• What is the rationale for positioning civic spaces separately from parkland, and is there an opportunity to better integrate these areas for accessibility and community benefit?
• How will future commercial and civic space be accommodated as Highfields grows, and will land parcels be developed incrementally to support evolving community needs?
• Are there plans to prioritize the development of green spaces, including features such as a water play area, picnic facilities, and cultural art spaces to enrich community life?
• Is there space for am ANZAC memorial monument within the open space, and how will planning decisions reflect the community’s desire to preserve Highfields’ character?

Do you have a question?

Should you have any further queries about his project, please contact Council at info@tr.qld.gov.au or on 131 872.