Council responds to big questions on Lowood Botanic Core
Published on 23 October 2025
Council responds to big questions on Lowood Botanic Core
SOMERSET Regional Council has received more than 100 responses during community consultation on the Lowood Botanic Core, with just one month to go for residents to have their say on Lowood’s future.
The Lowood Botanic Core is a key project in the delivery of Somerset Regional Council’s Lowood Futures Strategy, a multi-phase streetscape project intended to promote outcomes with social, economic and development benefits for Lowood.
The project encompasses Lowood’s central park and surrounding streets, creating an extension of the town centre through activated spaces within the park, and an injection of planting and shade within the streetscapes.
Detailed designs have been prepared for the Lowood Botanic Core by AECOM Australia based on the Lowood Futures Strategy Master Plan.
Lowood Futures Strategy Advisory Committee Chair, Somerset Mayor Jason Wendt, said community consultation was going well, with some frequently asked questions being raised by residents.
“We’re so appreciative of the community’s genuine interest, support and questions around the design plans,” Cr Wendt said.
“We want to get this project right, and community consultation is an essential part of the design process.
“Your ideas and passion for your town will ultimately guide Council’s decision making process, so it’s important to have your say.”
Cr Wendt confirmed the central carpark in Lowood is proposed to be replaced.
“This space will become a green shady multi-purpose space with new trees, grass and seating for the community,” Cr Wendt said.
“Council is already constructing a new carpark on Station Street, and has plans for another carpark on Railway Street and additional designated street car parking bays on Church Street, Main Street, Walters Street and Michel Street.
“To address safety concerns we have four new pedestrian crossings included as part of the streetscape, and will have discussions with the Department of Transport and Main Roads regarding reducing the speed limit to 40km/h.”
Cr Wendt said the community had great ideas and feedback for the Lowood Botanic Core.
“We have received suggestions for lighting around different parts of the town centre and a shade structure for the existing skate park,” Cr Wendt said.
“Rail trail cyclists and horse riders have also had many positive conversations with our Place Project Manager over the plans.”
Cr Wendt said a number of people have requested a splash or water play area.
“Council already has a splash pad and water play area at the Lowood Swimming Pool, less than one kilometre south of the Lowood Botanic Core project area,” Cr Wendt said.
“When developing the designs we considered existing assets within the town and the current park.
“Our goal is to add new opportunities and experiences in Lowood without duplicating existing community assets.
“The Lowood Botanic Core plans include proposals for a new dog park, amphitheatre, pump track, learn-to-ride track and cyclist and horse rest areas for the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.”
Cr Wendt said one of the Lowood Botanic Core’s most important features was the planting of around 700 new trees.
“We’re also preserving 94% of the existing trees within the project area and creating more shelters, providing more shaded areas for the community,” Cr Wendt said.
To view the plans and provide feedback, visit somerset.qld.gov.au/lowoodbotaniccore
For more information, contact Council’s Place Project Manager on 5424 4000 or mail@somerset.qld.gov.au