Markwell Group is due to begin demolition next week of a former Townsville inner-city hardware store to make way for the new $4 million CBD bus hub.

The $146,289 demolition tender is the first step towards construction of the 126-134 Ogden St facility, expected to be completed next year.

Townsville Deputy Mayor Les Walker said Markwell had a strong history in North Queensland and had outranked its competitors during the tender process in terms of value for money and environmental credentials. Weighting given to local tenderers had also assisted the group’s bid.

“A lot of work has gone into the design process in consultation with local residents and businesses to ensure potential issues are being addressed,” Cr Walker said.

“Council took possession of the site on July 1, paving the way for Markwell to begin demolition in August, once all necessary permits are obtained.

“We have conducted some community consultation to date, and once the design contract tender is awarded at the end of August, extensive consultation will be carried over a three to four month period.”

The tender for the detailed design contract is open.

More information about the project is available on the council’s website at: https://www.townsville.qld.gov.au/building-planning-and-projects/council-projects/townsville-city-bus-hub.