The giant jelly baby statues which stood outside the Centre of Contemporary Arts (CoCa) building for over a decade, will be relocated to Munro Martin Parklands.

The five fibreglass babies known as Gilbert, Oliver, Penelope, Roxanne and Yasmin, were removed from the front of the building last year as part of a State Government upgrade to the facility.

An expansion of the building footprint meant they could no longer be displayed out the front of the arts facility, which has now been re-named Bulmba-Ja.

The jelly babies were designed by local artist Sophie Cadman in 2004, who told Cairns Regional Council she preferred the Parklands site because of its high visibility, safety and security and its capacity to complement her artistic intent.

“These sculptures aim to communicate and celebrate the cultural diversity of our community, embracing all, but favouring none," Ms Cadman said when the artworks were commissioned.

"Each jelly baby is equal in its form but individual in its colour.

"This celebration is communicated through a medium that is recognised and enjoyed regardless of culture or age – Lollies!”

Cairns Regional Council had considered a number of sites for relocation, including near the Fun Ship at the northern end of the Esplanade, near the Cenotaph and adjacent to Muddies.

However, it was noted that having the babies close to children’s recreational facilities could inadvertently indicate that they were an interactive play feature.

Arts Queensland has committed to reimburse the Council for any expenses incurred for the relocation.

The figures will be installed in the north west corner of Munro Martin Parklands as part of current renovation works.