Awarded by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), the rating is based on assessing the sustainability performance of the precinct across five impact categories – governance, liveability, economic prosperity, environment and innovation.
Expected to open in 2022, the multi-billion integrated resort development is set to transform Brisbane. With a footprint of 26 hectares, across land and water and encompassing mixed-use developments, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane will provide a unique destination for tourism, leisure and entertainment. It will also offer significant economic benefits for both the local and state economy.
The sustainability components of the precinct’s masterplan are underpinned by a focus on liveability. They include many public spaces that incorporate recreational opportunities. Upgraded bikeways and a new mangrove boardwalk with an Indigenous trail have been designed to inspire healthy and active living, along with other facilities such as the Velo Café.
Tim Parker, WSP’s Director, Sustainability Manager ANZ, said, “This 6 Star Green Star rating has set a benchmark for masterplanned communities, not just in Queensland, but around Australia. The social, environmental and economic features are impressive and will enable the community to thrive.”
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is uniquely Queensland; embracing the subtropical climate and outdoor lifestyle of the river city. It will revitalise heritage buildings within the city, along with new state-of-the-art contemporary architecture.
“A key design feature of the masterplan is the precinct’s connectivity to the rest of the city centre,” adds Mr Parker. “The project comprises of investment in community infrastructure, such as the new Neville Bonner Pedestrian Bridge, that will provide a link from the precinct to South Bank. Artwork is also included throughout the site – it’s an important aspect of the social sustainability of the precinct and in creating a sense of place.”
Other sustainability features include contributing towards minimising operational greenhouse gas emissions; reducing waste during demolition, construction and operation; utilising sustainable materials; reducing the heat island effects; and conserving and reusing water.
“WSP has been involved in the project since infancy providing a broad range of services from sustainability masterplanning, structural and services engineering to pedestrian flow analysis, fire protection and everything in between,” concludes Mr Parker. “We have worked alongside the Destination Brisbane Consortium to push the boundaries of sustainability – in terms of governance, liveability, economic prosperity, environment and innovation – and we are delighted with the outcomes.
Demolition and enabling works are nearly complete, while the masterplan with Economic Development Queensland has progressed to the assessment period.