Toowoomba CBD set for a major glow-up

Published on 07 October 2026

Toowoomba CBD is about to shine a little brighter, with Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) rolling out new feature lighting across the city centre in coming weeks.

The project will see Toowoomba City Hall illuminated with programmable façade lighting, strands of icicle-style lighting installed across Ruthven Street, and prominent CBD trees wrapped in thousands of points of LED light.

Additionally, Council received funding through the Queensland Government’s Secure Communities Partnership Fund, which will be delivered in conjunction with this project, to upgrade lighting within key areas of the Toowoomba Safe Night Precinct to help improve safety and support the CCTV network to capture improved imagery.

TRC Property Services spokesperson Councillor Trevor Mantuefel said this project would deliver a significant “glow-up” for the heart of the city.

“This is about bringing some extra life, colour and energy into our CBD and making it an even more attractive place to visit, particularly after dark and as we move closer to Christmas,” Cr Manteufel said.

“City Hall is one of Toowoomba’s most recognisable buildings, and the new architectural lighting will allow us to showcase it in a completely different way.

“The system will be programmable, meaning City Hall can be illuminated in different colours and themes to recognise civic events, celebrations and community campaigns throughout the year.

“The project will also see infrastructure installed which will assist in illuminating a large Nativity Scene which is set to be front and centre at City Hall as part of festive celebrations in the lead-in to Christmas.

“Along Ruthven Street, the icicle lighting and feature tree lighting will add warmth and character to the streetscape and create something people can enjoy whether they’re shopping, dining or simply spending time in our city centre.

“We want our CBD to be a place people are proud of and want to spend time in, and these improvements are another way we can continue enhancing the experience of being in the heart of Toowoomba, including safety.”

Cr Manteufel said much of the installation would take place overnight to minimise disruption to businesses, shoppers and daytime traffic.

“We know works in the CBD can have an impact, so they’ve been deliberately scheduled at night wherever possible,” he said.

“Pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained throughout the works and I’d encourage people to continue supporting our CBD traders.

“I thank businesses, residents and motorists for their patience while we get this work done. The end result will be well worth it.”

Night works and changed traffic conditions:

Works are scheduled from Sunday 11 October to Thursday 15 October and Sunday 18 October to Thursday 22 October 2026, weather and construction conditions permitting.

Works will generally take place between 8pm and 5am.

Traffic changes will include:

• Sunday 11 to Thursday 15 October: full nightly closure of Ruthven Street between Russell and Margaret streets from 8pm to 5am.
• Sunday 18 October: closure of the Ruthven and Margaret streets intersection from 8pm to 5am.
• Sunday 18 to Thursday 22 October: full nightly closure of Ruthven Street between Margaret and Herries streets from 8pm to 5am.
• Traffic control and signage will be in place to assist motorists.
• Pedestrian access to businesses will be maintained, with temporary footpath detours around individual work areas.

Some construction noise, dust and additional lighting from machinery can be expected during the night works.

Council will seek to minimise disruption wherever possible and thanks CBD businesses, residents and road users for their patience and cooperation.

For further information contact Council on 131 872 or email yoursay@tr.qld.gov.au