Beechmont Site to Continue to Evolve as Community Hub

The Beechmont Community Centre will continue to grow and evolve as a community hub and visitor destination following Council's approval of a development application. 

The application by Beechmont Area Progress Association Incorporated (BAPA) will allow the Council-owned site of the former Beechmont State School to be used for markets, festivals, entertainment, indoor sports and recreation activities, weddings, church services, shared gardens, and community group functions and meetings. 

Planning and Development Committee Chair Cr Rick Stanfield welcomed the formalisation of arrangements which had existed between Council and BAPA for the past 10 years.

Leased by BAPA, the community centre site on Beechmont Road incorporates the former state school and Headmaster's Cottage, which now has approval to operate as a café, and is suited to a wide range of uses by individuals, clubs and community organisations. 

"Although the site has been used in many ways over the last ten years or so on an occasional basis, the development approval will allow for even greater focus on the long-term use of the space," Cr Stanfield said.

"The site is an attractive visitor destination with spectacular views and much to offer as a community hub and arts and crafts precinct. 

"This is an exciting development, not only for Beechmont in meeting the needs of locals, but also the wider Scenic Rim community by encouraging more people to visit our region."

The approved development will allow for 17 car parking bays, a service vehicle parking bay, and overflow parking.