Movie Move Makes Waves

Movie Move Makes Waves

THE intended development of a new cinema complex in Riverlink Shopping Centre is a prospect that holds many concerns for a number of local business owners in the CBD.  

The Ipswich City Council approved the cinema precinct last year which is set to open before Christmas.

The development has raised several concerns among locals and vendors, with many believing that the current cinemas on the corner of Brisbane and Ellenborough Streets bring more spenders to the area. 

 Lisa Tatton the owner of Urban Pantry is apprehensive about the suggested move with current cinema-goers making up a large part of her customer base. 

“I don’t think it’s good for local little coffee shops because I know Tuesday is a very good day for us, we get a lot of people going to the cinemas,” she says.

A new dining precinct consisting of seven restaurants alongside the river is set to be built within the shopping centre to accompany the cinema complex, as part of a plan by the Ipswich City Council. 

Although the combined cinema and dining options within Riverlink Shopping Centre creates convenience for patrons, Bridget McLean owner of the Coronation Hotel, is concerned. 

“If they are going to move it what are they going to replace it with and what’s the plan?” she asks. 

Ms McLean believes that the current cinema will become redundant, resulting in many potential customers favouring the entertaining and dining options closer to the shopping centre as opposed to local pubs and restaurants in the CBD. 

She also hopes for better communication between local businesses and developers in the future. 

 Ms McLean believes that the Ipswich CBD could thrive once again and that the area still has much potential.

Cinema construction is currently underway.