Morris Group has kicked off a master planning process for a major development on the Townsville breakwater.

The operators behind The Ville Resort-Casino and Ardo are exploring the addition of residential, tourism and infrastructure amenities to the prime seaside strip.

Morris Group founder and executive chairman Chris Morris said that this development, if feasible, would go a long way to helping the city realise its potential with uninterrupted views to Magnetic Island and Castle Hill.

“Townsville is booming, and the demand for not only residential development, but also domestic and international tourism is outgrowing the city’s capacity,” Mr Morris said.

As initial master planning progresses, the potential for mixed use residential and accommodation, conference and function space, car parking, retail and open space estimates a gross realisation of $1 billion into the local economy over an eight to 10-year period.

“With the success of Ardo, which is now one year old, the precinct is ready for its next evolution to truly become an international tourism and leisure hub,” Mr Morris said.

The Ville chief executive officer Tim Richardson said it was an exciting time for the precinct and the city as a whole.

“The potential development of the breakwater is an exciting opportunity for the city, and this private investment in regional Queensland is much needed and welcome,” Mr Richardson said.

“The long-term pipeline for Townsville is very robust, but we will continue to carefully watch economic and trade conditions to ensure the viability of the project.

“I’m looking forward to working with our local stakeholders including Townsville City Council, Townsville Port Authority, and the Queensland Government on bringing to life a vision for something that will further transform our city and the broader region.”