Palaszczuk Government moving ahead on Herston Quarter

Another milestone in the $1.1 billion Herston Quarter development has been reached, with the project development scheme approved today.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the Palaszczuk Government had consulted widely with the community on the scheme.

"The feedback we received during consultation had a significant impact on shaping the final development scheme with numerous amendments including reducing the building height and addressing concerns over the car park and traffic," Mr Dick said.

"The 87 submissions contained overwhelming community support for additional health and knowledge facilities and support for the conservation and reuse of the heritage buildings.

"The Palaszczuk Government has also delivered on our election commitment to reduce the height of the proposed 30-storey residential tower, down to 20 storeys."

Mr Dick said the project will generate 700 jobs each year over a 10-year lifetime and provide a further jobs boost after construction.

"The Herston Quarter is another wonderful example of the Palaszczuk Government engaging with the community and working alongside industry to boost the economy and generate jobs," he said.

Further community feedback incorporated in the scheme includes more connections for pedestrians and cyclists, improvements to the design of the car park to reduce noise and improve its overall appearance, additional access to parking and improved traffic signs throughout the Priority Development Area and the surrounding roads.

Mr Dick acknowledged the interest in the project by the Member for McConnel, Grace Grace.

"Grace has been a strong advocate of the views of local residents about this project," Mr Dick said.

Ms Grace said the Herston Quarter approval will protect the heritage of the site, enhance public health service delivery and revitalise the neighbourhood.

"I’m so proud that one of the first election commitments delivered by the Palaszczuk Government is a promise I made during the campaign to reduce the height of this residential tower," Ms Grace said.

"Reducing the residential tower from 30 to 20 storeys will ensure this project can happen with greater community ownership."

The development will ensure a better connection to the busway station and to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

Heritage-listed buildings including Lady Lamington E Wing and Towers, Edith Cavell and Lady Norman buildings, will be repurposed as part of the redevelopment.

There will be a 132-bed public health facility included in the precinct, combining specialist rehabilitation, surgery and ambulatory care services.

A copy of the Herston Quarter PDA Development Scheme and associated submissions report can be viewed at www.dilgp.qld.gov.au/herston-quarter-pda.

Media contact: Anika Hume 0447 320 039