The Brisbane City Council has given approval for stage one of Albion Exchange, Brisbane’s latest Transit-Oriented Development set to revitalise the inner-northern suburb.
Geon Property Senior Development Manager Tim Rossberg said the approval comes after significant consultation with Council, as well as ongoing discussions with residents, businesses and community groups.
“Geon is delighted with the news, believing this project will provide much-needed transport, retail, accommodation and lifestyle upgrades to the local area, and will bring Albion – one of Brisbane’s fastest growing city-fringe suburbs – to life.”
“We would like to thank those who have engaged with us in this process, especially local Councillor David McLachlan, the team at Brisbane City Council, local businesses, and the many members of the public who shared their views,” Mr Rossberg said.
“We are confident that Albion Exchange will truly set the standard for Transit-Oriented Developments in this city, across the state, and across the country.”
With Albion tipped to welcome another 4,000 residents by 2036, the project will support the needs of this growing urban area.
“Albion Exchange is well-positioned to become the future heart of Albion, with spaces for recreation, a focus on health and lifestyle services, and a brand-new retail precinct – elements that are currently lacking in the area,” he said.
According to the developers Geon, Albion Exchange will be a precinct characterised by its expansive green and open spaces.
“Green and open spaces are so important in urban areas, and we are proud that the approved design includes 3,691 square metres of public green and open space – covering 61 per cent of the site area,” Mr Rossberg said.
“For those who will call Albion Exchange home, we have also retained a significant amount of communal open space – just under 2,000 square metres – and have reconfigured the building layouts to improve internal circulation and maximise outdoor balcony spaces.”
The approved plans have also been refined to ensure safe and easy access to the site, and to support active transportation.
“Changes include widening stairs and paths, providing larger lifts with capacity for multiple wheelchairs, prams and bikes, and adding more shelter and shade,” Mr Rossberg said.
“The approved plans also enhance cyclist access to and around the precinct, with dedicated resident, employee, commuter and visitor bike parks, and a design that provides seamless integration with the soon-to-be-completed North Brisbane Bikeway.”
Mr Rossberg said more tenancies would be confirmed in 2020 and construction is anticipated to be on track to commence by the end of the year.
“Geon Property is incredibly proud to be contributing to the vision for Albion, and we are looking forward to seeing Albion Exchange come to life.”