Queen’s Wharf Proposals Finally Revealed

The Brisbane CBD doesn't currently boast a waterpark, an underground shopping arcade, a waterfall, or a nightly 3D light show — but these wistful dreams might soon become a reality. The final two proposals for the Queen's Wharf precinct have been revealed, with a decision due to be made by mid-year. Both options promise to completely transform the area contained within the borders of Alice, George, Queen and William Streets.

Those familiar with the city space on the north side of the river will know it as the home of the Treasury Casino and Hotel, a whole heap of government office buildings, some neglected land underneath the Riverside Expressway, and not a whole lot else. Two consortiums are doing battle to claim the development and associated casino license, creating what the state government called "a world-class integrated resort".

Each proposal shares a number of elements, including the office tower currently being built on William Street. In radically reshaping the inner city, Brisbane's first six-star hotel (it's a thing), ample new cafes and restaurants, a new cinema, residential apartments and a connecting bridge to South Bank also feature in both plans.

Greenland Crown, comprised of Greenland Group and Crown Resorts, has highlighted the idea of an active waterfront, sprawling around a new sub-tropical public space that can accommodate 8000 people. Culinary experiences led by famed chefs Neil Perry and Guillaume Brahimi, along with a rooftop garden, infinity pool and luxury spa, rank among the other indulgent inclusions.

The Destination Brisbane bid from Echo Entertainment Group, Far East Consortium and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises, plans to build a brand new casino, turn the existing site into a shopping centre, add a skydeck, and create an inner-city beach with river access for kayaks and the like. With a microbrewery, art gallery, markets and cooking school as well, their space favours an arc shape that will create a distinctive look.

Whichever plan wins, it'll still be quite some time until Queen's Wharf comes to fruition, with construction expected to commence in 2017. Either way, Brisbanites can look forward to a plethora of new CBD hangouts. We've waited decades – what's another few years?