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Brisbane Needs an East-West Mass Rapid Transit

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east west mass rapid transit
Brisbane East West Mass Rapid Transit Concept. Source: DesignworksUSA of Siemens Klang Valley MRT Kuala Lumpur.
Brisbane East West Mass Rapid Transit Concept. Source: DesignworksUSA of Siemens Klang Valley MRT Kuala Lumpur.

Opinion: Now is the time to plan a useful public infrastructure project that will benefit Brisbane into the long term. Short term thinking on infrastructure planning should be weeded out and bipartisan convergence of mass transit planning from all political parties is needed.

One of the most critical infrastructure projects that we believe Brisbane needs, along with Cross River Rail and the planned Brisbane Metro is a new high frequency East-West mass rapid transit line to connect Brisbane’s burgeoning inner city growth areas, otherwise our surface streets will see overwhelming car and bus gridlock within the next decade.

The dawn of the 21st century has seen Brisbane transform the way we build our housing. Once allowed to sprawl as far as the Taylor Ranges to the West and to Moreton Bay in the East, Brisbane is continuing to build upwards and attached, infill dwellings now account for most of new greater Brisbane dwelling construction.

This new type of densified growth has notably been concentrated along a 10km East-West axis. Growth now follows an East-West path of desirability along the snaking Brisbane River.

The East-West Mass Rapid Transit

East-west growth axis
East-West Growth Axis

Interactive Map

Zoom into map to see possible route alignment.

Station Directory

Click on stations to see more information.

East-West mass transit explained

  • A 12.8 kilometre underground driverless metro line
  • x4 underground river crossings
  • x15 underground stations
  • Target capacity of around 40,000 customers per hour, similar to other metro systems worldwide
  • Linking Queensland’s largest university to the rest of the city
  • Finally providing Northshore Hamilton with access to mass transit
  • Linking Brisbane’s highest density areas, most of which have no access to mass transit
Artist's impression of interior of Siemens KVMRT Metro
Artist’s impression of interior of Siemens KVMRT Metro

Using an overlay of Brisbane Development Map data, we can summarise that around 43,400 dwellings have been recently completed, under construction, proposed, approved or mooted within a 450m radius of fifteen stations along a blue line linking the University of Queensland to Northshore Hamilton.

Using a conservative multiplier of x1.6 persons per apartment dwelling, an estimated 70,000 new residents will reside within this east-west corridor of inner Brisbane, on top of existing residents, new student residents, and new office workers.

These figures are conservative and do not include populations of student accommodation, hotel rooms, aged care facilities or new commercial space, so this final figure is likely to be a lot higher.

New world cities need long term visions and even with Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro, Brisbane is playing catchup. The Brisbane City Council is correct to upgrade parts of the existing North-South busway into a metro line, however to avoid total gridlock and an engrained car culture of inner city areas outside of this existing Busway, we need to properly service additional high density growth areas with a dedicated high frequency underground metro line.

A similar, much longer driverless system which is currently under construction in Sydney is explained below:

Costs

Deriving the costs of a barely mapped out system with so many potential variables is almost like looking into a crystal ball. However by analysing a whole range of proposed, under construction or recently completed metro systems in the world, we can begin to understand the costs per kilometre in order to ascertain a rough total figure for a 12.8km East-West metro for Brisbane.

International Metro Infrastructure Construction
International Metro Infrastructure Construction

The three closest systems with similar market conditions and labour costs to that of Brisbane are Sydney Metro, Singapore’s Thomson MRT Line and Singapore’s Downtown MRT Line. When averaged, these projects represent an cost of $412 million per kilometre.

Using this vague but straightforward method of comparison, we can predict that if using similar driverless metro technology and construction methods, similar to that of the Sydney and Singapore lines, a 12.8km East-West Metro connecting Brisbane’s most dense areas would cost somewhere between $4 to $6 billion (exact averaged figure is $5.2 billion).

Funding

With traditional funding methods lethargically inhibiting vital existing projects like Cross River Rail from commencing, such a project of this nature requires non-traditional, innovative sources of revenue that utilise value capture, the private sector and public money.

Possible non-traditional funding methods
Possible non-traditional funding methods
Value Capture

Value Capture is method of infrastructure revenue raising which identifies and collects an equitable portion of the increased land values caused by new infrastructure improvements. For example, new property wealth that is generated as a direct benefit of a nearby mass transit station would be tapped in order to help fund and spread increased wealth to the broader community.

Value capture explained. Source: Value Capture Roadmap by AECOM, Consult Australia
Value capture explained. Source: Value Capture Roadmap by AECOM, Consult Australia

report by Aecom and Consult Australia explains that value capture is not a new tax. It allocates the uplift in benefits from public investments in ways that do not affect current or future tax rates.

The report highly recommends the use of value capturing mechanisms for new Australian infrastructure. First used in North America in the 1960’s, Australia has never really used this type of funding method, instead relying on higher taxes, public handouts and new levies.

International experience demonstrates that well planned public transport can increase land values by up to 50% and can contribute substantial portions of the overall cost of new infrastructure.

The Denver Union Station redevelopment captured $135 million of its $446 million cost (roughly 30%) of the total capital cost through value capture.

Another example of value capture, this one an extreme case is the MTR in Hong Kong, which is 100% funded by property development gains. MTR Corporation acquires land for new stations and development sites around stations are then leased at higher values with new mass transit infrastructure in place. Although Brisbane has no where near the density and population levels of Hong Kong, our densifying inner city areas most certainly can allow a good enough percentage of capital costs to come from the value capture method.

PPP (Public Private Partnership).

While PPP ventures of large scale infrastructure projects in Queensland have had a rocky and controversial past due to the collapse of two roadway consortiums in Brisbane, Pubic Private Partnerships of public transport infrastructure overall has been quite successful, with Goldlinq Consortium being a good example of this success.

In it’s first year of operation, the 13km Gold Coast Rapid Transit exceeded it’s original 5.70 million forecast to reach 6.18 million trips while boosting the city’s public transport patronage by 25%. Goldlinq is now part of a 7.3km expansion project which will connect the light rail system to heavy rail.

An East-West line, taking people where they want to go will equally be as successful and could attract domestic and international corporations like Singapore’s successful MRT corporation to invest in such a line.

Public Bond Raising

Government issued bonds for infrastructure investment is nothing new and has been used to build public infrastructure projects throughout the world.

The governing authority in charge of establishing a hypothetical investment vehicle for East-West Rapid Transit could in essence create an easier method for the public to invest in fixed rate government bonds.

Through the use of technology which is largely available to everyone such as a smart phone application, everyday people could be enticed to invest into government treasury bonds which are a predictable, long-term source of income rather than lower interest term deposit accounts. Additionally, these infrastructure bonds could be issued as tax-exempt bonds which would make them a highly attractive investment for a lot of people.

It starts with an idea

Brisbane is at a crossroad. We are fast approaching a critical mass of population within our inner city areas to sustain a more serious long term form of mass transit. With the inevitable population growth in areas mentioned earlier, in 10-15 years time politicians will be calling for a project of this nature. So why wait for when we actually need it to start planning it?

Long term infrastructure should not be seen as a ‘distraction’ to current projects like Cross River Rail or Brisbane Metro, but more of a sustainable investment and careful way of planning for the needs of tomorrow so that one day we won’t be scrambling at the 11th hour to cure gridlock problems and pay higher amounts for shorter construction periods.

If a hypothetical project like an East-West Mass Rapid Transit system was ever contemplated, it should utilise innovative but calculated methods of funding, so that it doesn’t cost the world. More importantly however, such a system should absorb good ideas from successful projects across the globe.

As for the future, your task is not to forsee it, but to enable it.
– Antoine de Saint Exupery, poet and pilot (1900-1944)

Boutique Commercial Building Proposed for Newstead

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Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead

A development application has been submitted by 43 Commercial Road Pty Ltd, a company linked to Lion Property Group for a new 6-storey boutique commercial building located at 43 Commercial Road, Newstead.

Designed by Bayley Ward, the development comprises of a landscaped ground floor breeze-way plaza that celebrates the sub-tropical identity of the area and some car parking spaces.

Level 1 consists of tenant wellness and communal facilities and meeting rooms with levels 2-5 consisting of typical office floor levels.

A rooftop recreation deck is proposed as a break-out space for tenants which would include deep planting, climbers on arbours and seating nooks throughout. An indoor undercover dining area is also planned.

Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Architectural rendering of 43 Commercial Road, Newstead

According to the architects the design delivers a high quality, sub-tropical urban and architectural outcome through integrated landscaping and passive design principles + operability.

Project Rundown

  • Site Area: 502m2
  • GFA: 2,034m2
  • Height: 6 storeys plus partially covered rooftop terrace garden
  • Elevators: x1
  • Retail: x1 small ground floor tenancy
  • Communal Space: x4 office tenancies
  • Car Parking: x9 spaces
  • Bike Parking: x14 spaces
  • Developer: Lion Property Group
  • Architect: Bayley Ward
  • Landscape Design: Urbis
  • Town Planner: Human Habitats
  • Sustainability: Deep planting throughout, provision for rooftop solar PV system
  • Date Submitted: 22/05/2023
Architectural rendering of the internal office space at 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Architectural rendering of the internal office space at 43 Commercial Road, Newstead
Diagram of proposed rooftop landscape plan
Diagram of proposed rooftop landscape plan

The building replaces an existing two storey brick unit block.

 

Plans

Plans

 

Tell us what you think about this development below in the comment box. The development application for this project, available to view on Brisbane City Council’s Developmenti online platform is A006282089.

Subscribe to BrisbaneDevelopment.com here.

New Terminal to Bring Ferries Back to Dockside in 2024

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Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal
Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal

A brand-new Dockside Ferry Terminal will reopen to Brisbane residents and visitors in 2024.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner announced on-site work to build a bigger and fully accessible terminal will begin within days.

“On site construction is about to ramp up at the Dockside ferry terminal, with the old terminal to be removed and replaced with a new terminal,” he said.

“This upgrade will make Brisbane more accessible and help residents and visitors travel around our river city.

“The new terminal is a bespoke single berth design that will meet all accessibility requirements, with waiting space and seating for passengers.

Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal
Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal

“These upgrades will ensure everyone can enjoy Council’s ferry services, including passengers with a disability, their families and carers, older residents, passengers using a mobility device and parents with infants in prams.

“Council is committed to ensuring safe, efficient and accessible public transport networks across the city.”

Most of the fabrication work for the new ferry terminal structure is occurring offsite. Works onsite will include removing existing on-water infrastructure from the old terminal, installing a new fixed walkway and a flood-resilient gangway and pontoon.

Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal
Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal

Barge-mounted cranes and machinery will be brought in for piling and concrete pours to create support structures for the new terminal.

A section of the adjacent timber boardwalk at the interface to the upgraded terminal will also be replaced with a more resilient concrete walkway.

Cr Schrinner said the devastating 2022 floods were an important reminder that Brisbane’s ferry terminals must be built to the highest standard.

“The reality is Brisbane will flood again, and this new terminal will have a flood-resilient gangway and pontoon,” he said.

Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal
Architectural rendering of new Dockside ferry terminal

Local supplier Fitzgerald Constructions Australia is delivering this project.

Civic Cabinet Chair for Transport Councillor Ryan Murphy said works would be coordinated to minimise disruption to residents and businesses.

“Most of the fabrication work for the new ferry terminal structure is occurring offsite,” Cr Murphy said.

“We are mindful that this is a densely populated part of Brisbane, so any out-of-hours works will be kept to a minimum wherever possible and residents notified in advance.

“There will also be access changes on the shared pathway while a section of old timber boardwalk is reconstructed, with traffic control, signage and detours in place to guide cyclists and pedestrians around the work area.”

Onsite works are expected to be completed in 2024.

Works on the Mowbray Park ferry terminal upgrade will start after the completion of the Dockside ferry terminal upgrade.

Taller Buildings Planned for South Brisbane’s Kurilpa Precinct

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Kurilpa Riverfront Precinct - Urbis
Kurilpa Riverfront Precinct - Urbis

South Brisbane’s Kurilpa precinct is set to become Brisbane’s most sustainable community, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has announced.

Cr Schrinner said new residential buildings built above existing height limits will need to be greener, brighter, and more energy efficient and deliver community benefits.

“Brisbane is the fastest growing capital city in Australia so we have to deliver new homes while also protecting the character of our suburbs and the lifestyle our residents love,” he said.

“The Brisbane’s Sustainable Growth Strategy, which we released in March, achieves that by allowing CBD-style heights in the Kurilpa precinct, an area that already has incredible access to public infrastructure and amenities.

“We are now proposing to take this a step further by requiring residential buildings that exceed existing height limits meet higher requirements of sustainability and deliver benefit to the wider community.

“That means our strategy won’t just help create more than 10,000 homes in this area, it will create a community of Brisbane’s most sustainable buildings, liveable neighbourhoods and new public destinations.

“This is a win for housing, a win for our environment and a win for the liveability of Brisbane.”

Under the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct Plan, residential building above existing heights will be required to:

  • Meet the Green Building Council of Australia’s 5-star Green Star rating category.
  • Incorporate greater greenery through the introduction of a higher green plot ratio.
  • Ensure more expansive green space, public realms, open spaces and pedestrian plazas so all residents will receive benefits.
  • Invest in public art and creative lighting.

The plan will also require taller buildings to incorporate other community benefits elements such as public facilities, accessibility improvements and housing diversity and affordability models, including build-to-rent and agreements with community housing providers.

Cr Schrinner said the requirements under the plan will ensure the Kurilpa precinct becomes an inviting destination for visitors and residents across Brisbane.

“More public realms, like those incorporated into West Village, as well as public facilities and art will make the Kurilpa precinct not just a great place to live but a fantastic destination for everyone to visit,” he said.

Green Plot Ratio - Urbis
Green Plot Ratio – Urbis

“The steps we’re taking today to require building standards on new residential towers set a new benchmark that will help Brisbane become cleaner, greener and more sustainable in the future.”

The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct Plan will become part of the existing City Plan. A temporary local planning instrument (TLPI) will go to full Council for support on next Tuesday to make sure any new applications lodged for taller buildings in the Kurilpa precinct meets green design and community benefit standards.

Cr Schrinner said he wanted Brisbane to join the ranks of other major cities around the world like Singapore and Toronto that champion sustainable design requirements.

“Better designed buildings delivers a better Brisbane for everyone,” he said.

“Cities like Singapore and Toronto have high standards for green sustainable buildings, and this is an opportunity for Brisbane to do the same in this area.

“A greener city is not only environmentally friendly, but it’s attractive.

“In the future, homes in the Kurilpa precinct will become some one of Brisbane’s most sough-after neighbourhoods properties as people will want to live in well-designed green buildings within the heart of our city.

“By adding this new layer to our strategy to deliver new housing we are ensuring it’s delivered in a thought-out and environmentally sustainable way.”

Brookfield Propose BTR Development for Portside East, Hamilton

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Architectural rendering of Brookfield's new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton
Architectural rendering of Brookfield's new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton

Brookfield has submitted a development application for a new dual-tower built-to-rent residential development located at 11 Macarthur Avenue, Hamilton.

Designed by Fender Katsalidis, the proposal will deliver 560 purpose-built apartments and a range of non-residential uses, including a café, shop/dog-grooming salon, sizable co-working space and gymnasium.

According to the development application, whilst they are intended to primarily serve the residents, use is not exclusive to the residents, and broader community use is encouraged.

Situated directly next to Portside Wharf, the proposal involves the construction of two 23-storey towers and represents the first built-to-rent (BTR) project in Northshore Hamilton.

Architectural rendering of Brookfield's new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton
Architectural rendering of Brookfield’s new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton
Architectural rendering of Brookfield's new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton
Architectural rendering of Brookfield’s new built-to-rent development at Portside East, Hamilton

Key to the facade design approach, was to create a distinction between the four tower massing blocks when viewed from a distance. This is achieved by applying different rhythms, articulation and composition of glazing, concrete and screening across the facade of the podium and towers. This is highlighted in the image to the right.

The tower and podium proposed materiality correlate and responds to different uses, and simultaneously creates distinct aspects to all frontages.

Through the use of similar materiality, arranged in distinctively varied facade composition, each built form within the precinct retains a unified identity within a diversity of architectural expression. – Fender Katsalidis

Project Rundown

  • Site Area: 9,836m2
  • GFA: Residential 38,705m2, Amenities 2,455m2 (Total 41,160m2)
  • Height: 23 storeys (plus basement and mezzanine) / RL85m
  • Apartments: Studio x 51, 1 bedroom x 251, 2 bedroom x 222, 3 bedroom x 36 (x560 apartments total)
  • Elevators: x3 each tower. Lift-to-unit ratio of 1:143
  • Retail: Food and drink outlet (café), Indoor sport & recreation (gymnasium), Office
    (co-working space), Shop (dog grooming), Parking station (car share scheme) –
    primarily intended for resident use but not exclusively and as such have been
    included as separate land uses for the purposes of the application to avoid any
    confusion
  • Communal Space: 7,056m2 (17% of GFA)
  • Car Parking: 436 cars and 65 motorbike spaces
  • Bike Parking: 640 spaces – including dedicated bike store at ground level
  • Developer: Brookfield
  • Architect: Fender Katsalidis
  • Landscape Design: Urbis
  • Town Planner: Saunders Havill Group
  • Sustainability: Targeting a 4 Star Green Star ‘Buildings’ rating, the apartments will target Exceptional Performance in the Green Star ‘Energy Use’ category, designed to achieve an average NatHERS 7 star rating across the development, a minimum NatHERS rating of 5.5 stars in addition to meeting maximum cooling and heating loads stipulated in Qld Development Code MP4.1 Sustainable Buildings. The proposed Build-to-Rent development will incorporate a car share scheme as well as electric vehicle charging facilities. Dedicated solar panel zones on the rooftop to supply common areas with electricity.
  • Date Submitted: 18/05/2023

On the podium level, a sizable recreation zone is proposed which includes outdoor pools and spas, seating areas, garden lawns, a sizable 100m2 residents lounge, wellness and spa area, wine library, private dining areas, a dog lawn bbq areas and a games room.

This application is also Brookfield’s first BTR-led development in Brisbane.

Northshore Hamilton is the location for the main athletes village as part of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.

Plans

Plans2

 

Tell us what you think about this development below in the comment box. The development application for this project, available to view on Economic Development Queensland’s online platform is 1435.

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Kokoda Propose 22-Storey Residential Development in Milton

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Architectural rendering of Mary Mary development in Milton by Kokoda Property
Architectural rendering of 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton in Milton by Kokoda Property

A development application has been submitted by Kokoda Property for a 22-storey residential development located at 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton.

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects, the residential tower would accommodate 145 apartments with a distinct perforated mesh screen facade proposed.

“The mesh screen is balanced by the integration of green climbers and cascading planter beds. This treatment is consistent throughout the design and follows through to street with the intent on activating the public realm.

Sweeping curves, horizontal banding adjoining at certain intervals connect the whole facade together.” – Cottee Parker

The development incorporates a large amount of communal recreational amenities for residents’ use within the ground level, Podium Level 1 and Rooftop Recreation Deck.

Architectural rendering of Mary Mary development in Milton by Kokoda Property
Architectural rendering of 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton in Milton by Kokoda Property
Architectural rendering of Mary Mary development in Milton by Kokoda Property
Architectural rendering of 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton in Milton by Kokoda Property

The ground level provides a meeting room and work zone. Podium Level 1 provides a private dining area, lounge, theatre room, games room and dog washroom.

The Recreation Deck has been designed to provide residents with a variety of indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities, including a private bar/dining room, barbeques, lounges, gym, lap pool and deck area, infrared sauna and plunge pool.

Project Rundown

  • Site Area: 1,640m2
  • GFA: 12,985m2
  • Height: 22-Storeys / SSL78.18m
  • Apartments: 145 units total, including: 54 x one bedroom units, 77 x two bedroom units, 12 x three bedroom units, 2 x four bedroom units
  • Elevators: x2 elevators. Lift-to-unit ratio of 1:72.5.
  • Retail: No planned retail
  • Communal Space: Total Communal Open Space 528m2 (32.2%)
  • Car Parking: 183 spaces total, including: x161 resident spaces (plus four (4) resident motorcycle spaces), x22 visitor spaces (including one (1) PWD space and one (1) shared Van space)
  • Bike Parking: 182 spaces total, including: x145 resident spaces, x37 visitor spaces
  • Developer: Kokoda
  • Architect: Cottee Parker
  • Landscape Design: Urbis
  • Town Planner: Urbis
  • Sustainability: High amount of deep planting throughout, recycling bin shoot diverter,
  • Date Submitted: 16/05/2023
Architectural diagram of Mary Mary development in Milton by Kokoda Property
Architectural rendering of 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton in Milton by Kokoda Property

Plans

Plans

 

Kokoda property are also developing a neighbouring residential tower development next to 12-18 Crombie Street, Milton called The Ambrose which is currently under construction.

Tell us what you think about this development below in the comment box. The development application for this project, available to view on Brisbane City Council’s Developmenti online platform is A006274815.

Subscribe to BrisbaneDevelopment.com here.

City to South Bank Revitalisation Plans Unveiled

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Architectural rendering of Victoria Bridge Shade structure
Architectural rendering of Victoria Bridge Shade structure

The Brisbane City Council has unveiled plans for a revitalisation of the connection between the CBD and South Bank.

The plans unveiled include a range of upgrades and enhancements that are set to transform the link to become more seamless and accessible for residents and visitors.

One of the primary areas of focus is the Cultural Centre itself. Enhancements will include improved public space, pedestrian connectivity to platforms, and improved station capacity.

The entrance to the precinct will also be enhanced, making it more welcoming and inviting to visitors. The plan also includes improvements to pedestrian, cycle, and e-mobility movements, making it easier and more convenient for people to navigate the area.

Cr Schrinner said the vision will complement Council’s major upgrade of the Cultural Centre Bus Station which is being undertaken as part of the Brisbane Metro project.

Architectural rendering of Victoria Bridge Shade structure
Architectural rendering of Victoria Bridge Shade structure
Architectural rendering of Melbourne Street shared path
Architectural rendering of Melbourne Street shared path

Another element of the revitalisation plan is to the Victoria Bridge. A new shade structure would be constructed on the southern side in order to protect people from the elements.

“Shading Victoria Bridge will significantly enhance walkability between South Brisbane and the CBD, particularly during the hotter months of the year,” Cr Schrinner said.

The nearby Reddacliff Place will also be purchased by Council for long-term public ownership and benefit, maintaining and enhancing the activation of the space.

The purchase price of Reddacliff Place, also known as Brisbane Square is currently still being negotiated.

Cultural Centre Station
Cultural Centre Station

The George St entry threshold will also undergo a revitalization, with improvements made to sightlines and amenity, creating a more welcoming and inviting experience for visitors.

Perspective of more seating to replace existing cafe
Perspective of more seating to replace existing Milano cafe

Sightlines and vistas to and from the Victoria Bridge will be prioritized, with the removal of structures including the two remaining popular cafes Milano and the Pig ‘N’ Whistle which will close from June.

In their place will be more seating and planter boxes with a licensed popup activation area being considered at the bottom of the Queen Street Mall where the current Pig ‘N’ Whistle is situated.

Perspective of pop-up licensed zone to replace the pig & whistle
Perspective of pop-up licensed zone to replace the pig & whistle

A council spokesperson said this will mean vendors such as pop-up gin bars, a new tasting breweries or food trucks could pop up weekly.

Stage 2 of NEXTDC Innovation & Technology Precinct Proposed

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Architectural rendering of NEXTDC's Innovation and Technology Precinct - Stage 2
Architectural rendering of NEXTDC's Innovation and Technology Precinct - Stage 2

A development application has been submitted by NEXTDC for stage 2 of its Technology and Innovation Precinct, located at 454 St Pauls Terrace, Fortitude Valley.

The project involves the construction of a ten storey building comprising of 3 levels dedicated for data halls and three levels of commercial office space housing NEXTDC’s Australian headquarters.

NEXTDC is a ASX 100-listed Australian owned and headquartered company out of Brisbane. The company has a growing national network of twelve data centres and numerous more in design and build phase.

According to the development application, the second stage of the precinct aims to build on the success of the stage 1 data centre facility and provide further critical infrastructure and complimentary facilities to support Brisbane’s knowledge and technology industries, and the growth of the digital economy.

“The proposal represents the next component of the NEXTDC Innovation and Technology Precinct, an important opportunity to deliver a globally-renowned precinct to support knowledge and technology industries within Brisbane. – NEXTDC”

Architectural rendering of NEXTDC's Innovation and Technology Precinct - Stage 2
Architectural rendering of NEXTDC’s Innovation and Technology Precinct – Stage 2
Architectural rendering of NEXTDC's Innovation and Technology Precinct - Stage 2
Architectural rendering of NEXTDC’s Innovation and Technology Precinct – Stage 2

Project Rundown

  • Site Area: 4,671m2
  • GFA: 8,218.82m2
  • Height: 9 storeys / 60.40m AHD
  • Elevators: x2
  • Retail: No planned retail space
  • Communal Space: No planned communal space
  • Car Parking: 13 spaces (including 1 motorcycle and 1 PWD space)
  • Bike Parking: 42 bicycle parking spaces, 24 lockers and 4 showers (inc. 2 PWD shower facilities)
  • Developer: NEXTDC
  • Architect: Architectus
  • Landscape Design: LatStudios
  • Town Planner: Ethos Urban
  • Sustainability: NEXTDC’s facilities showcase superior Engineering designs that are purpose built to drive exceptionally high levels of energy efficiency, certified to NABERS 5-star standards
  • Date Submitted: 08/05/2023

The proposal involves roof-top plant, including new generators for stand-by power generation. These generators are designed to be operational only in the rare event where the site loses electrical supply from the power grid. Stand-by power generation will operate using diesel fuel and lithium-ion batteries.

The new generators for stand-by power generation will operate generally consistent with the stand-by generators provided as part of the existing Stage 1, which since commencement have only been operational during for testing.

Architectural rendering of NEXTDC's Innovation and Technology Precinct - Stage 2
Architectural rendering of NEXTDC’s Innovation and Technology Precinct – Stage 2

The proposal acknowledges the limitations in providing extensive landscaping areas throughout the site due to the built form requirements of a data centre. However, careful considerations have been made to develop suitable landscaping solutions to improve and enhance the overall design outcome of the proposal.

The overall NEXTDC Innovation and Technology Precinct comprises three (3) stages, described as follows:

  • Stage 1 (existing) – comprises the existing NEXTDC B2 data centre facility which has been developed and is in operation. Acknowledging its importance in providing continuity of service, Stage 1 will remain in operation and be integrated with Stage 2
  • Stage 2 (the proposal) – comprising a new built form adjacent to the existing B2 data centre, a new nine-storey built form with three levels of office space, three levels of Data Halls and two levels of services at roof level
  • Stage 3 (future) – A future stage of the NEXTDC Innovation and Technology Precinct, which will be subject to a separate development application in due course.

Today, NEXTDC employs more than 300 staff across Australia, Malaysia, and Japan, with an Enterprise market cap of over $5 billion AUD.

Plans

Plans

 

Tell us what you think about this development below in the comment box. The development application for this project, available to view on Brisbane City Council’s Developmenti online platform is A006268579.

Subscribe to BrisbaneDevelopment.com here.

Brisbane Showgrounds Build-to-Rent Project Breaks Ground

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Architectural rendering of Lend Lease's Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds
Architectural rendering of Lend Lease's Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds

The Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers MP marked the commencement of Exhibition Quarter, Lendlease and QuadReal Property Group’s first build-to-rent residential apartment building at Brisbane Showgrounds in Queensland.

The new development will provide residents with an alternative to the traditional rental market, with 443 build-to-rent residences in a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments over 37 levels.

Located at 498 St Paul’s Terrace, Bowen Hills, the project has a strong focus on health and wellbeing, premium amenities and communal spaces.

Exhibition Quarter will include a 25m lap pool with beach edge, fully equipped gym, outdoor spa retreat, yoga room as well as podcast and music recording studios, BBQ pavilion, co-working amenities, dog wash facilities and resident lounges.

Architectural rendering of Lend Lease's Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds
Architectural rendering of Lend Lease’s Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds

Residents will also have access to a 24-hour first class concierge service, as well as 225 car parks and 471 bike spaces on the podium level.

Exhibition Quarter will be fully electric with no gas, enabling it to be 100 per cent powered by renewable electricity, and will target a 5 Star Green Star Buildings Version 1 rating.

Architectural rendering of Lend Lease's Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds
Architectural rendering of Lend Lease’s Exhibition Quarter build-to-rent project at Brisbane Showgrounds

QuadReal is a joint venture partner and co-owner of the development with Lendlease, with Lendlease also acting as development manager and investment manager.

Lendlease Australia CEO Dale Connor said that the project marks the commencement of Lend Lease’s build-to-rent capability in Australia.

Completion of this project is expected around late 2025.

Dual-Tower Residential Project Proposed for Stones Corner

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Architectural rendering of proposed dual tower residential development at 75-85 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner
Architectural rendering of proposed dual tower residential development at 75-85 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner

A development application has been submitted for a 12 storey dual-residential development by Pedakil Pty Ltd located at 75-85 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner.

The development comprises of 226 one, two, three, and four bedroom apartments and includes two residential towers, each 12 storeys in height and featuring a rooftop recreation area.

The two rooftop recreation areas would be connected by a “skybridge” which serves to join the two buildings making it more convenient for residents to utilise the full recreation area no matter what building they are located in.

Designed by NMDS Architecture, the towers feature extensive use of planter boxes along with climbing and cascading plants, to the full height of the centre units to each tower.

Architectural rendering of proposed dual tower residential development at 75-85 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner
Architectural rendering of proposed dual tower residential development at 75-85 Cleveland Street, Stones Corner

Project Rundown

  • Site Area: 3,846m2
  • Height: 12 storeys / RL 51.5m
  • Apartments: x79 one bedroom apartments, x83 two bedroom apartments, x62 three bedroom apartments, x2 four bedroom apartments (x226 apartments total)
  • Elevators: x2 lifts per building. Lift-to-unit ratio of 1:56.5
  • Retail: No ground level retail
  • Communal Space: Managers Office, Mail Room, Community Garden / Dog Walk, Yoga Lawn, Dining and Function area, Theatre, Alfresco Dining, Pool and Communal Deck, Change rooms and bathrooms. Gymnasium.Rooftop – 2,364m2
  • Car Parking: x273 spaces (including 10 Share Car spaces), Visitors: x57 spaces
    Total: 330 spaces
  • Bike Parking: Residents: x226 spaces, Visitors: x57 spaces
  • Developer: Pedakil Pty Ltd
  • Architect: NMDS Architecture
  • Landscape Design: Wild Studio
  • Town Planner: Bplanned & Surveyed
  • Sustainability: Extensive deep planting throughout. No rooftop solar PV system
  • Date Submitted: 10/05/2023

A large communal open space area is proposed on the roof of each tower, providing facilities which enhance the recreation opportunities available to residents.

Such facilities include a pool and spa, communal terrace area, gym, yoga lawn, community garden and dog walk, theatre, and indoor/outdoor dining areas.

The rooftop communal open space area is set amongst generous landscaping to provide a subtropical microclimate through shading and softening of the built form.

Plans

App 1 - Proposed Plans

 

Tell us what you think about this development below in the comment box. The development application for this project, available to view on Brisbane City Council’s Developmenti online platform is A006270233.

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Station Square: $1.2 Billion Development Unveiled in Woolloongabba Ahead of 2032 Olympic Games

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Architectural rendering of the proposed Station Square development in Woolloongabba by Trenert
Architectural rendering of the proposed Station Square development in Woolloongabba by Trenert

Woolloongabba is on the brink of even more transformation with the announcement of the Station Square project, a massive new 1.2 billion mixed-use development inspired by the upcoming Greater Brisbane 2032 Games.

Developer Trenert says the project will celebrate Brisbane’s unique heritage and potential as a global city with Station Square comprising of four towers, complete with a pedestrian link spanning Stanley Street, providing access to the Cross River Rail Woolloongabba underground station, with a planned Metro station to follow.

Station Square would also feature affordable housing, residential apartments, a 320-room five-star hotel, office building and a retail complex at ground.

A development application is yet to be submitted, however the taller building appears to be around 40 storeys high which would make it the tallest building to be built outside of the Brisbane CBD. The project would also integrate and restore the heritage Railway Hotel.

A central green spine is proposed to run along the middle of the site and connect to new residential and office towers. A community park is also proposed towards the back of the master plan.

Architectural rendering of the proposed Station Square development in Woolloongabba by Trenert
Architectural rendering of the proposed Station Square development in Woolloongabba by Trenert
Masterplan of the proposed Station Square development at Woolloongabba
Masterplan of the proposed Station Square development at Woolloongabba
Aerial photo of the Station Square development site at Woolloongabba
Aerial photo of the Station Square development site at Woolloongabba

The 1.3-hectare site is located on consolidated land bordering Hubert, Stanley and Reid Streets directly opposite the Woolloongabba Cross River Rail Station.

Last month the government proposed a plan to expand the existing Woolloongabba Priority Development Area which will cover significant parts of the Olympic Stadium precinct, including this site.

The Queensland Government's newly expanded Priority Development Area around the Olympic Stadium and Cross River Rail
The Government’s newly expanded Priority Development Area around the Olympic Stadium and Cross River Rail / Brisbane Metro

According to Trenert, the precinct is set to become a central hub for work, entertainment and living.

“Station Square is an exciting new mixed-use precinct, diagonal to the Gabba Stadium, the future site for the 2032 Olympic Games.”

 

“This development is designed to celebrate and showcase Brisbane’s unique heritage and display who we are as a global city for the future.”

 

“With direct links into the Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro, the precinct will be a meeting place for work, to live or entertain in Brisbane.” – Trenert

The project’s vision for the region is a significant step towards its revitalisation, as well as the creation of new investment and employment opportunities in the area.

BlueCHP, an affordable housing operator has been signed on to help develop the affordable housing component of the development.

The Station Square project is anticipated to set a benchmark for future private sector investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The development’s podium level would be developed first with five levels of basement parking consisting of around 670 car spaces.

BrisbaneDevelopment.com will report more about the $1.2 billion project set to be unveiled by Trenert and the Government soon. Subscribe to BrisbaneDevelopment.com here.

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