Brisbane City Council has released concept plans for one of the city’s major thoroughfares, Edward Street, that will see it transformed into a greener, more pedestrian-friendly space that enhances its high-end retail character. The plans detail a reduction of the four-lane road to just three lanes, as well as the widening of footpaths and the introduction of more pedestrian crossings.
The vision for the street has identified three precincts that run from Turbot Street down to Alice Street, including the High-end Retail Core, the Spring Hill gateway and the botanic gardens gateway. The project overview includes a plan to make Edward Street “an exemplar pedestrian street and subtropical retail boulevard … contributing to Brisbane’s emergence as Australia’s New World City.”
The vision for the street has identified three distinct precincts, including two gateway precincts that link to King Edward Park and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.
Image: Brisbane City Council
The plans will introduce up to 30 percent more pedestrian capacity than the existing street conditions, and will include a path for cyclists that connects river-side bike routes with the city centre.
The concept plans for Edward Street will see it transformed into a greener, more pedestrian-friendly space that enhances its high-end retail character.
Image: Brisbane City Council
In addition to widening and opening up footpaths along the High-end Retail Core precinct, street art and lighting will be introduced and additional trees will be planted.
The focus of the two gateway precincts is to use street trees and landscaping to connect them to nearby green spaces, while also improving access for cyclists and improving footpaths. The use of greenery along the gateways will emphasize Edward Street’s connection to both King Edward Park and the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at the river end.
In the June Council Annual Plan and Budget 2015-16, Brisbane City Council allocated $11.4 million to refurbish Edward Street between Queen Street Mall and Charlotte Street over the next three years.
The project to transform the street will be completed by the first half of 2018.
To view the concept plans click here.
