Commercial Tower & New PCYC Proposed for Fortitude Valley

Silverstone Developments has submitted a development application for a 14 storey commercial tower and 4 storey Police-Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) facility located at 458 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley.

The development is to be undertaken over 4 stages and will ensure the existing PCYC remains operational in an interim capacity throughout the redevelopment of the site.

The development includes a management subdivision which will allow the PCYC and office tower to operate independently.

Designed by Rothelowman, the commercial tower features a prominent ‘eroded corner’ design which is articulated through intricate powder-coated metal screens.

“The overall design approach contributes to the emerging urbanity of Brisbane by responding to local culture, history and climate. The result is a proposal which both acknowledges the fabric of the city and relates to the scale of the individual.” – Development application

The commercial development also features a 128sqm ground floor cafe and a 260sqm rooftop terrace level.

Development Rundown

• Site area: 1,864sqm
• A total of 82 car spaces
• 6 motorcycle bays
• Height of PCYC: 4 storeys
• Height of commercial tower: 15 storeys
• GFA of PCYC: 1,555sqm
• GFA of the commercial tower: 8,236sqm

Materiality and Longevity

According to the development application, the materials for the proposal aim to be robust and timeless. The podium, in particular, has been designed as a masonry base to provide a strong civic presence to the city and is to be of a quality “that can be appreciated by the passer-by for years to come”.

Architecture and Nature as Artwork

The architecture of the erosion corner celebrates the culture and identity of Brisbane and its intrinsic connection to nature – a connection understood by residents and visitors alike. The erosion responds to the canopy of the tree which contributes directly to this same experience and connection.

Creative Lighting

The corner of Wickham and Church streets presents as an important junction for traffic as well as pedestrians moving through and around Fortitude Valley and the James Street Precinct. The underside of the erosion is illuminated which create visual interest as well as lighting for pedestrians.

Energy and Technology

The external facade of the building responds to the heat of the Queensland sun by reducing direct solar radiation on the facade glazing. Horizontal slab extensions are provided to protect from the midday sun and vertical shading devices helps alleviate the heat from the low eastern/western sun in the morning and in the afternoon. Natural lighting will be used in conjunction with energy efficient artificial lighting.

Waste and Water

The proposal will harvest rainwater for both irrigation of planting. Efficient fittings will be provided for both commercial and retail tenancies to reduce water consumption.

Active Transport

The proposal will provide high quality end-of-trip facilities to encourage green modes of transport and healthier lifestyles, to reduce carbon emissions & traffic congestion. Access to bicycle storage, shower facilities and a bicycle workshop amongst other facilities will promote commercial tenants to cycle to and from work. The facilities will be directly accessible from Wickham street.

The Queensland Government entered into an agreement with Silverstone Developments Pty Ltd to redevelop the site.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick said the two parties have agreed to develop a new facility on a portion of the existing site at 458 Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley.

“Recognising an opportunity to renew the ageing infrastructure, Government in consultation with PCYC Queensland ran a competitive bid process, seeking private sector participants to deliver the new PCYC Fortitude Valley facility,” Mr Dick said.

“Government will now work with Silverstone to develop the new facility and ensure a great outcome for PCYC Queensland and the Fortitude Valley community.

“The development will create around 162 jobs during construction and will be fully funded by Silverstone Developments.

Member for McConnel Grace Grace said the new facility will be a fantastic facility for the whole community.

“PCYC Fortitude Valley has been operating since 1965 and plays an important role in fostering the development of local young people through a range of services and programs, including sport, youth development and leadership, and crime-prevention,” Ms Grace said.

“Along with creating 20 new jobs the development of a new standalone building will provide significant benefits in the form of new community facilities that will enrich the range of services offered by PCYC Fortitude Valley.

“The support of many stakeholders including PCYC Queensland has been integral in reaching this important milestone.”

PCYC Queensland Chief Executive Officer Phil Schultz said the new facility would allow the organisation to expand their service offerings to the broader Fortitude Valley community.

“It is a very exciting announcement not only for PCYC Queensland but for our members and the local community we serve as a trusted and respected charity,” Mr Schultz said.

“These purpose-built facilities will also ensure PCYC Fortitude Valley will continue to be an iconic part of the local landscape.”

Construction on the new PCYC Fortitude Valley facility is expected to begin late 2019.

Silverstone Developments Managing Director Troy Daffy said the company, which is based in Fortitude Valley, was pleased to be engaged in such an important local project.

“Silverstone Developments has a successful track record of delivering high-quality, landmark developments, including heritage-building refurbishments in Fortitude Valley and the neighbouring inner-city suburbs of Spring Hill and Teneriffe.

“We’re looking forward to continuing our involvement in the local area by delivering an exciting new space for the iconic PCYC Fortitude Valley.”

Silverstone Developments has plans for a commercial development on the remainder of the PCYC Queensland site.

The development application number for this project is A005255613.