QLD Govt reveals new, larger Woolloongabba Priority Development Area

The Queensland Government has announced a new expanded Woolloongabba Priority Development Area (PDA) that encompasses Woolloongabba, Kangaroo Point, East Brisbane, South Bank and the Stanley Street precinct. 

The new PDA spans about 106 hectares and will deliver more housing – including social and affordable housing options – as well as more jobs and better connectivity. 

“We have a unique opportunity to capitalise on Queensland’s growth and 2032 to create a thriving inner-city suburb. 

“The larger Woolloongabba PDA will transform the area as the southern gateway to Brisbane’s city centre,” Deputy Premier Steven Miles said. 

The expanded PDA will now see the redevelopment of the Gabba Stadium, Cross River Rail and the Brisbane Metro connected to South Bank and Brisbane CBD via a walkable, active travel corridor to South Bank and Brisbane City Council’s new green bridge. 

The new, larger Woolloongabba PDA will also enable a more integrated and coordinated planning approach to the entire suburb. The PDA will build on the current development in the area, facilitating sustainable interconnected neighbourhoods near public transport, open space and supporting services and conveniences. 

In addition, the new PDA will include a 20 per cent requirement for high quality social or affordable housing that includes affordable housing options for frontline workers. It will also include a commitment for 50 per cent open space in the Cross River Rail and Stadium precinct. 

“Major projects like the Gabba redevelopment, Cross River Rail and Brisbane Metro will bring investment to the area, and we’ll see more jobs and more housing. 

“It will also allow for better connections into the CBD and beyond and more active transport options, including a walkable spine from The Gabba to Roma Street through South Bank. 

“This planning approach will mean we can build on the unique opportunities an inner-city suburb offers and it will uplift the amenities locals can enjoy, like green space, retail and entertainment,” Mr Miles said. 

A Woolloongabba PDA Interim Land Use Plan has also been established and will be in effect over a 12-month period. This temporary planning document will regulate development within a PDA in an interim capacity until a PDA development scheme is finalised. 

This interim land use plan has been prepared to provide an interim planning and development framework for the Woolloongabba PDA while detailed planning and community engagement is being carried out as part of the development scheme preparation process. 

The Woolloongabba PDA Development Scheme is now being prepared, with community consultation projected to begin in April 2024, and the Development Scheme finalised by September next year. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; Queensland Government – State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning; The Age