The draft South Bank plan has received over 15,000 pieces of feedback, with 89% of respondents supporting its vision. The top themes identified in the feedback included active transport, green space growth, and southern gateway renewal. However, there was strong opposition from residents to a proposed Little Tribune Street to manage vehicle access to the area, leading to a rethink of the proposal. Stakeholders also raised concerns about potential loss of parking along Grey Street.
South Bank Parklands has been a popular destination for over 30 years, attracting around 14 million visitors annually. The master plan for South Bank envisions creating a new legacy for Brisbane. The South Bank Corporation chair has stated that the body will work closely with the government to plan for and invest in the precinct’s next phase, taking into account the feedback received from the consultation process.
The final version of the plan has made changes based on the feedback received. The proposed site for the financially troubled Maritime Museum has been removed from the plan, and a new “Southern Gateway building” is now proposed south of the dry dock. There are also plans for redevelopment of the QCA site, with a shared pedestrian and vehicle zone proposed to replace road access from the Vulture Street side. Part of Little Stanley Street may be closed to traffic, with parkland expanded and a new dining and market precinct created.
The renewal of the 30-year-old lagoon’s infrastructure is seen as an opportunity to extend the lagoon and create a new water play zone. The Plough Inn will be extended toward plaza space, and potential additions to the Queensland Conservatorium and a treetop walk entry are also proposed. The Piazza will remain until at least 2032 to support the Games, showing how the plan is not only focused on current needs but also has an eye on the future.
Overall, the feedback received on the draft South Bank plan has led to significant changes in the final version. The plan includes proposals for active transport, green space growth, and southern gateway renewal, while addressing concerns such as loss of parking and conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. The plan aims to build on the legacy of South Bank Parklands and create a new future for the precinct, with investments and planning to support its next phase of development.
