Master Plan announced to reinvigorate Government Precinct

Premier Campbell Newman and Minister for Housing and Public Works Bruce Flegg today announced the development of an exciting plan to renew the Government Administrative Precinct.

As well as reinvigorating the precinct, Mr Newman said the plan would act as a catalyst to stimulate the construction industry.

“The Precinct Master Plan is expected to provide around 18,000 jobs over five years and will be delivered at no additional cost to taxpayers,” Mr Newman said.

“The plan calls for the strategic redevelopment of key sites in George and William Streets with a focus on mixed use functionality including commercial, retail, residential, hotel and cultural amenities.

“Importantly, it will protect and celebrate the heritage buildings in the area including the old printing buildings, Harris Terrace and the Mansions in George Street.”

Mr Newman said a key aim of the Precinct Master Plan was to start rationalising the Government’s office portfolio and revitalise the precinct through mixed-use development.

He said the State would underpin the redevelopment by remaining a major tenant in the Precinct.

“To start the redevelopment, the Government is now calling for registrations of interest for the construction of a new office tower of up to 60,000 square metres at 1 William Street.

“This vacant site, currently being used as a carpark, has been designated for government office development since 1974 and is the logical site for government administration given its proximity to Parliament.

“The Government will also seek options for the redevelopment and enhancement of 80, 100 and 102 George Street through an Expression of Interest process, providing up to 60,000 square metres of additional office space.”

Housing and Public Works Minister Bruce Flegg said the Precinct Plan was an unprecedented opportunity to enhance Brisbane’s reputation as a vibrant city with modern architecture set in a well-planned urban environment.

“The last documented plan for the Government Administrative Precinct was in 1974, so this really is an area ripe for significant revitalisation particularly when considered with the area under the freeway,” Dr Flegg said.

“It will give the local building industry a much needed shot in the arm and will allow for the rationalisation and improved efficiency of government office accommodation within the Central Business District.

“It’s also the perfect opportunity to improve the traffic flow around the precinct.

“The sale of prime real estate also opens up significant opportunities for private sector investment in commercial office space, retail and residential sites.”

The Queensland Government Administrative Precinct area stretches from Queen Street to the Botanic Gardens, and from the river’s edge to Albert Street.

[ENDS] 29 May 2012

Media contacts: Premier’s Office (07) 3224 4500

Graeme Hallett (Housing and Public Works Minister) 0408 763 671