Rail revolution: Albion station to be supersized

A $750 million development that was part of a Palaszczuk Government election commitment is set to transform the precinct surrounding Albion train station.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said an agreement had been signed with Brisbane property developers, Geon Property, to revitalise the Albion site through a Transit Oriented Development (TOD).

“Former LNP leader Tim Nicholls has been the Member for Clayfield since 2006 and, despite being the shareholding minister for rail at one point during that time, failed to deliver a single station upgrade,” Mr Bailey said.

“The Palaszczuk Government is now doing the work he neglected, and then some.

“During the election campaign, we committed to investing in a multimillion dollar accessibility upgrade at this station and we will now work with the developer to ensure it integrates with their plans for the precinct.

“This fifteen year project will integrate Albion train station with, nearby commercial and residential buildings and vacant land to deliver an exciting community asset.

“By unlocking the potential of the 3.5 hectare site through partnership with the private sector we will deliver enhanced public transport infrastructure for the local community.”

Geon Property’s Albion Train Station Precinct Redevelopment included an upgrade to transport facilities and access to the Albion train station intended to revitalise the suburb of Albion and surrounding community.

The group will start a detailed design, development application and approval process over the next 12 to 18 months.

This will include public engagement to ensure the local community was given opportunity to provide feedback.

Mr Bailey said construction was expected to start in 2019-20 and more information would be available as development applications and approvals proceeded.

The developers will: 

o   design and construct a mixed-use TOD integrated with Albion Train Station and the wider area 

o   work with the state to design improved Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) compliant access to Albion Train Station and construct 

o   work with the state to optimise the design and location of commuter car parking (to ensure no net loss of park’n’ride numbers) and undertake construction of the necessary works 

o   integrate with a section of North Brisbane Bikeway through the precinct 

Mr Bailey said the TOD would complement planning currently underway by Queensland Rail for an upcoming accessibility upgrade of Albion train station. 

“While this accessibility upgrade is currently in early planning stages, improvements being explored include new platform access with lifts, raised platform sections providing improved assisted boarding points, and other accessibility features such as hearing aid loops, signage and tactile flooring surfaces. 

“Construction on the accessibility upgrade is also expected to start in late 2019,” Mr Bailey said. 

Geon Property Managing Director Ben Griffin said the TOD offered a unique opportunity to revitalise Albion. 

“Redeveloping Albion train station allows us to deliver a truly world-class transit oriented development,” Mr Griffin said. 

“This project will be more than just a property development – our vision is to create a precinct that is a genuine destination. 

“This project will be defined by a seamless integration of high-quality apartment living, retail, food and beverage outlets with genuine character, modern commercial offerings and vibrant public open spaces. 

“It will offer access to Brisbane’s transport networks, integrating with one of South East Queensland’s busiest train lines, connecting to the bikeway network and providing accessible parking options.” 

For further information about the Albion Train Station Precinct Redevelopment, please visit https://www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Community-and-environment/Planning-and-development.

Background:

The Palaszczuk Government has previously announced funding/$17 million for the Albion Station Accessibility upgrade and will work with Geon Property through detailed design on this and other upgrades to transport facilities and access as part of the development.

ENDS

Media contact:          Dominic Geiger, 0447355565