RNA SHOWGROUNDS REGENERATION-HISTORY IN THE MAKING
The approval by the Urban Land Development Authority (ULDA) of the $2.9 billion RNA Showgrounds Master Plan in November 2010 signalled the culmination of seven years of vision, planning and execution. From a long-term goal of the RNA Council in 2003 to construction of stage one starting in April 2011, the RNA Showgrounds is set to be transformed into a lifestyle and cultural hub for the community to access all year round. One of the key reasons for redeveloping the RNA Showgrounds is to generate year-round, seven days a week vitality throughout the precinct for use by the community. The regeneration will preserve the historic character of existing facilities, while creating a new and unique sense of place for all Queenslanders.
A series of special public spaces, connected by a network of lanes, streets and bikeways, will strike the perfect balance between a thriving Ekka, a year round events program and a vibrant new mixed use urban village community.
Key facts
Size - 22 hectares and represents the largest Brownfield development of its kind in Australia. Project includes 340,000m2 of new residential, commercial and retail buildings, together with an additional 76,000m2 - as envisaged in the RNA's Master Plan approved by the ULDA-on RNA retained land.
Investment -The project value including RNA facilities and new residential/commercial/retail development is estimated at $2.9 billion. This is funded primarily by Lend Lease and through a $65 million loan from the Queensland Treasury Corporation.
Economic benefits / job creation - The regeneration project is expected to deliver $300 million per annum in economic benefits to Queensland, while supporting Brisbane's future economic and population growth by creating at least 2,000 jobs a year over the life of the project.
Transport - Transport infrastructure projects planned or currently underway in the local area, such as Airport Link and Northern Busway will make the RNA Showgrounds more accessible to the community.
Construction - The project will occur in several stages. Stage one began in April 2011 with major works to the Industrial Pavilion transforming it into a convention and exhibition centre. The annual Royal Queensland Show will continue to operate throughout the life of the project.
Support - The regeneration of the RNA Showgrounds has the bi-partisan support of the Queensland Government, State Opposition, Brisbane City Council, the Federal Government and Federal Opposition plus many within Brisbane's business, agriculture, industry and community sectors.
The Master Plan
The RNA Showgrounds Master Plan will combine the site's rich history with its future potential. The regeneration will ensure the site becomes a destination synonymous with events, fashion, design, lifestyle and culture, hosting world-class events and shows all year round. The master plan includes:
• A rebuilt Industrial Pavilion to create a world-class exhibition/convention centre.
• A new Fresh Food Market.
• 340,000m2 of new residential, commercial and retail development located on 5.5ha around the extremities of the RNA site.
• New large animal pavilions.
• Retention of important Heritage elements.
• Softening the boundaries of the RNA Showgrounds to open up the space to the community.
• Creating open and green spaces within the site.
• Upgrading the pavilions, ovals and stands.
• Linking neighbouring precincts and suburbs with cycle and walking paths.
• Providing a hotel to accommodate Brisbane's business and tourist visitors.
• Creating open and green spaces to ensure a sense of tranquillity within the site.
• An urban community consisting of commercial, retail and residential buildings.
New Exhibition and Convention Centre
The project involves the transformation of the Industrial Pavilion into the new Royal International Convention Centre will provide an additional 6,000m2 of floor space (totalling approximately 22,000m2) by incorporating an additional level 1 suspended floor which will be used to house extra events and shows throughout the year.
Related Articles: