New Woolloongabba PDA set to drive Cross River Rail in Queensland, Australia
A new priority development area (PDA) has been declared in Woolloongabba to support construction of the next inner-city train station for the Palaszczuk Government’s Cross River Rail project.
PDAs are introduced across the state to identify land for development that offers significant economic and community benefits.
Once a PDA has been declared by the State Development Minister, the Queensland Government works with local council and industry stakeholders to plan, assess and deliver projects in the area.
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the Woolloongabba Cross River Rail PDA will replace and extend the area’s existing PDA, enabling the construction of a station-to-stadium precinct.
“The new PDA includes all land within the former Woolloongabba PDA as well as land east of Main Street, including the Gabba,” Mr Dick said. “The inclusion of the Gabba enables the delivery of a dedicated pedestrian connection from the new Cross River Rail station to the stadium, providing easy access on game days and for events.
“The PDA precinct will be transformed into a vibrant mixed-use place, linking commercial, residential and retail development with world-class public transport.
“It will create a better overall Gabba experience for spectators and locals alike, and with regular train services and a direct connection between the stadium and Woolloongabba’s entertainment district it’s going to support business growth and job creation.”
To ensure the development of the new station remains on track, an Interim Land Use Plan is now in effect and will regulate development within the new PDA for up to 18 months while a development scheme is drafted.
“Over the next 18 months the Cross River Rail Delivery Authority will work closely with the state government, Brisbane City Council and the community to prepare a development scheme for the site,” Mr Dick said. “The community will then have an opportunity to comment on the Woolloongabba Cross River Rail PDA proposed development scheme when it is publicly notified.”
Minister for Cross River Rail Kate Jones said declaring the new Woolloongabba PDA would increase investor confidence and certainty, helping to attract more development and business to the city.
“This about getting on with the job of building Queensland’s largest infrastructure project,” Ms Jones said. “Cross River Rail will create more than 7000 local jobs for workers. This is guaranteed employment and gives peace of mind to Queenslanders working on the project.
“Today is a great milestone – ensuring we’re forging ahead with one of the government’s most important initiatives.”
Cross River Rail is a 10.2 kilometre rail line from Dutton Park to Bowen Hills, including 5.9 kilometres of twin tunnels under the Brisbane River and city centre.
The project includes four new high-capacity underground stations at Boggo Road, Woolloongabba, Albert Street, Roma Street, providing direct access to business, retail, education and entertainment.
Three new stations on the Gold Coast line are also being built as part of the project, while eight above-ground stations will be upgraded, including Exhibition, which will become a year-round station offering every-day services from RNA Showgrounds.
For more information about the Woolloongabba Cross River Rail PDA declaration and Interim Land Use Plan visit the Queensland website.
