Boggo Road Gaol to be Reborn

Brisbane’s historic Boggo Road Gaol is set to be reborn under a $300 million redevelopment unveiled today.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Tim Mander said the project would create more than 1,200 jobs during the construction phase and would give the mothballed prison a new lease on life, 131 years after it was first opened.

“This project will give Queenslanders unprecedented access to the gaol, which was decommissioned in 1989,” Mr Mander said.

“The goal will incorporate a modern mixed use development into the existing site in a way that celebrates the gaol’s historical significance.

“Under the proposed plans, the site will become a community hub featuring cafés, restaurants and a marketplace within and around the gaol’s walls as well as offering tours and a museum so people can continue to learn about the gaol and the role it played in Brisbane’s rich history.

“It will contribute significantly to the local economy, both during the redevelopment and beyond, and is part of our strong plan to grow the construction industry.”

Leighton Properties will be undertaking works to create a new urban village in the surrounding area, which will be similar to the Barracks, the Powerhouse and the Teneriffe Woolsheds.

Calile Malouf Investments Pty Ltd, the creators and operators of the successful James Street Market in New Farm will be undertaking the redevelopment of the gaol, in consultation with Leighton Properties and the State Government.

National Trust President Stephen Sheaffe said that the organisation was looking forward to having the gaol opened up to the Queensland community.

“It’s important that Queenslanders have access to sites like these, so that they can appreciate the role they played in our state’s history,” Mr Sheaffe said.

“We’re excited about working with all involved to make sure we get a great outcome.”

Leighton Properties National Head of Residential Gavin Tonnet said the people of Brisbane could look forward to a new community precinct, supporting local residents and workers as well as attracting a wide range of visitors.

“The Boggo Road Gaol is a unique public asset, but experienced by very few,” Mr Tonnet said.

“Through interpretive planning and sensitive design, the proposal seeks to retain the aesthetic and social significance of the area and to transform it into a public place that incorporates educational opportunities, tours and a museum.”

“The Gaol will be respectfully renewed in partnership with a team of experts and heritage advisors to ensure the long-term sustainability of Boggo Road’s important heritage and cultural fabric, while allowing the memory of the place to be retained in a sympathetic way.”

“The mixed-use precinct will be supported by a vibrant retail marketplace and include approximately 500 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and commercial space in proximity to key educational and employment nodes, and major transport links.

“The project team has been consulting those who have a close connection to the Boggo Road Gaol site since 2012 and have started consulting industry regarding the proposed redevelopment plans.”

“Leighton Properties is pleased to continue its broader conversation with the community and encourages people to have their say at www.boggoroadcommunity.com.au

[ENDS] 1 October 2014

Media contact: Martin Kennedy 0418 891 943