Brisbane's Eagle Street Pier to Make Way for New $1.4 Billion Waterfront Precinct

The Eagle Street stretch of the Brisbane river is slated for a massive makeover, courtesy of a proposed new $1.4 billion waterfront hub. As announced by the Queensland Government, the plan will completely tear down Eagle Street Pier and transform riverside area, including the building of two new towers, the creation of a traffic-free precinct and the opening up of 1.5 hectares of public and riverfront space.

That's the submission that commercial property firm Dexus have put forward, and it has just been given approval to progress to the next stage. The company now set to conduct a full feasibility study, working towards a 2020 construction start date.

If it does receive the final go-ahead, the proposal will see the zone between Charlotte and Market streets permanently closed off to vehicles, the widening and upgrading of the Riverwalk, and the addition of expansive shaded areas. Within the two new towers — which will replace current structures — more restaurants and casual eateries will be added. The buildings will also boast the potential for commercial use, residential apartments, a hotel and retail spaces.

It'll mark the biggest change to this part of the river since Eagle Street Pier was built back in 1989, and force the closure of existing establishments such as Aria, Il Centro, Cha Cha Char, Bavarian Beer Cafe, Jade Buddha, Sake and more to make way for the new development. Neighbouring buildings at 10 Eagle Street, 12 Eagle Street, Waterfront Place and the heritage-listed Naldham House will all remain, however, and form part of the precinct.