The eastern suburbs of Ipswich are experiencing significant development, evidenced by a notable increase in population and housing construction during the first quarter of 2024.
Ipswich City Council’s Planning and Regulatory Services Quarterly Report, covering the period from January 1st to March 31st, 2024, underscores the momentum in the region’s expansion.
According to the report released this week, over 1,600 individuals made Ipswich their new home during the year’s initial months, with 625 residential lots added to accommodate the influx.
Although growth slightly tapered compared to the previous year, Ipswich Mayor Teresa Harding said the city’s population rose by 0.7 percent, reaching a total of 254,093 residents.
“Ripley stands out as our fastest-growing suburb with 395 new residents and 129 dwellings in the area during the quarter,” she said.
“We have also seen huge growth in Redbank Plains, South Ripley, Spring Mountain, Brookwater, and Collingwood Park.”
Mayor Harding emphasised the necessity for continued investment in infrastructure and transportation from both Federal and State governments to support Ipswich’s rapid growth.
“Our latest figures support council’s ongoing advocacy efforts for the public transport corridor between Ipswich Central and Springfield Central, and state support for the booming Ripley development area,” she said.
“We need more road, rail, and transport options to cater for our increasing population. This is something Council will be fighting hard for with an upcoming election in Queensland, and a federal election not too long after that.”
Despite a slight dip in migration numbers compared to the previous quarter, the report indicated a growth in confidence in development activities, with notable increases in the creation and approval of lots.
In addition to residential growth, business activity also saw an uptick, with 103 new food business licenses approved during the quarter.
