It was designed by colonial architect FDG Stanley, and was constructed by Townsville builders J & J Rooney, at a cost £4,463.

[1] The Sturt Street frontage, which originally housed the magistrate's office, is a symmetrically designed structure.

The classical portico, which is reached by a short flight of stairs, features a gabled pediment, columns and round arched door and windows.

[1] A section across the back of the structure has been enclosed with glass louvres, while the 1901 strong room remains intact.

[1] The former Townsville Magistrates Court was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register on 21 October 1992 having satisfied the following criteria.

It illustrates some of the principal characteristics of its type, with the imposing classical design exemplifying the building's important judicial and authoritative role.

The place is valued by the local community as an important part of their cultural heritage, as evidenced by the 1970s purchase of the property by the Townsville City Council.

[1] The place has a special association with the life or work of a particular person, group or organisation of importance in Queensland's history.