Social InfrastructureLindsay SaundersMon 26 Oct 26
South Bank Courts Private Partners for Overhaul Ahead of 2032 Games
Brisbane’s South Bank is being opened to private-sector investment as the city explores a new lagoon and upgraded public spaces, with a separate 20-year plan proposing a new generation of waterfront recreation facilities across the eastern bayside.
The two initiatives span different scales of renewal, from a 4.8ha opportunity area at one of Brisbane’s busiest visitor precincts to 8km of foreshore covering Wynnum, Manly and Lota.
At South Bank, the Queensland Government and South Bank Corporation have invited industry to register interest in a potential partnership to renew the precinct, with a new lagoon and improved public space identified as essential outcomes.
The process will also explore integrated commercial development and improved connections across the precinct, which attracts more than 16.6 million visits a year.
The state said the invitation for prequalification was to gauge industry interest and capability ahead of procurement decisions.
The opportunity area centres on the Main Lagoon and surrounding parkland, retail and public spaces, rather than the entire 42ha South Bank Corporation precinct.
The existing Streets Beach lagoon has recorded water losses of up to 112,000 litres a day at peak levels and requires regular maintenance, according to the Queensland Government.
The state has identified the initiative as part of its broader preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
South Bank Corporation’s Future South Bank Master Plan, released in 2024, provides the longer-term framework for changes to the precinct. Any proposals emerging from the industry process would remain subject to further engagement, planning and statutory approvals.
The indicative procurement timetable targets prequalification submissions in December 2026, with a preferred proponent targeted for late 2027, subject to approvals.
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Meanwhile, the Brisbane City Council has released a draft 20-year masterplan for the Wynnum, Manly and Lota foreshores, proposing upgrades to waterfront parks, swimming areas and public recreation facilities.
The plan covers 15 parks and 8km of waterfront. Proposals have been shaped by about 1460 pieces of community feedback gathered during a consultation phase.
At Wynnum, the existing wading pool could be upgraded into a sand beach pool with deck areas, while Manly could gain a new jetty, mangrove boardwalk, kayak launch facilities and a waterplay and parkour park.
The draft also proposes expanding and replenishing Pandanus Beach, alongside additional picnic shelters, seating, barbecues and improvements to walking and cycling connections.
The council said community feedback had highlighted demand for better access to the water, more swimming opportunities, shade and places for recreation, while also emphasising the need to protect the foreshore’s natural environment and established character.
The draft masterplan is open for public consultation until November 22. The final plan is scheduled for completion in early 2027.
The city has indicated that design work on priority projects could begin during the current financial year, although the draft masterplan does not commit to construction dates for individual proposals.
