The developer behind a proposed 15-storey residential tower in Fortitude Valley is facing opposition from residents who believe the project is not in line with the local plan. The tower is proposed for a section of Fortitude Valley where the local plan requires 19th-century timber cottages to be protected. The developer defended the project by stating that the site is one of the largest remaining landholdings in the area and that the unique opportunity presented calls for a taller structure. The proposed tower would be situated next to non-residential properties that have the potential to be redeveloped to a similar height along Light Street and Wickham Street.
Residents expressed their concerns at a council meeting and urged Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner to adhere to the local plan and not approve the project. They argued that approving such a building plan would go against the community’s trust in the neighborhood plan and the council. The proposed development spans nine lots on the corner of Hynes, Light, and Knapp streets on the Newstead fringe of Fortitude Valley. Council town planning chair Adam Allan stated that the application was still being assessed and acknowledged that the area has a unique character that should be preserved.
Despite the opposition, the developer maintained their position and highlighted that the area around Fortitude Valley, Newstead, Teneriffe, and Bowen Hills is highly sought after for residential living in Brisbane. The developer’s proposal aims to provide additional housing in the inner-city suburbs due to the accessibility to public transport and services. However, residents argued that the housing crisis primarily impacts those on lower to middle incomes, and the proposed apartments are high-end and aimed at a wealthier demographic. The tower is strategically positioned behind low-medium density townhouses to maximize the unique size and corner location of the site.
The developer emphasized that the proposed tower aligns with the heights allowed in other areas of the Valley Gateway Precinct, and the unique opportunity presented by the subject site justifies the height of the building. While residents are concerned about preserving the character of the neighborhood and adhering to the local plan, the council is continuing to assess the application. The area around Fortitude Valley, Newstead, Teneriffe, and Bowen Hills is considered desirable for residential living in Brisbane, and the council aims to provide additional housing options. The outcome of the proposed residential tower in Fortitude Valley remains to be determined as the developer and residents continue to voice their concerns and opinions.
