Premier Statement: Showground Hill launched at Iconic RNA Showgrounds

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Premier and Minister for Reconstruction
The Honourable Anna Bligh
07/09/2011

Showground Hill launched at Iconic RNA Showgrounds

Premier Anna Bligh today launched a $2.9 billion transformation of Brisbane's historic RNA Showgrounds - the biggest urban renewal project undertaken in the city in more than two decades.

The Premier was joined by RNA Chief Executive Jonathan Tunny and Lend Lease Head of Development David Rolls to announce the design of "Showground Hill' - the residential, commercial and retail component of the overall project.

"This is a massive boost for the Queensland economy and it is fitting that it should be in such a historic spot," Ms Bligh said.

"It is the largest urban renewal project undertaken in Brisbane since Expo 88 and the South Bank development and it marks an exciting new chapter in Brisbane's future."

The announcement coincides with the release of independent analysis on the impact of the new development on the State's economy. The report by SGS Economics and Planning shows that over 13 years this project is expected to create economic activity worth close to $4 billion and create more than 15,000 jobs, both direct and indirect.

In 2012 almost 300 jobs will be created rising to more than 1,000 by 2013 before peaking at more than 1,800 in 2019.

Upon completion, it will be home to 3,000 residents and 15,000 workers and is expected to contribute an average of $295 million to the local economy every year for the next 18 years.

"Queensland's economy is transforming for the energy age that promises our State such a bright future and this development is a fitting symbol of this new era," Ms Bligh said.

"It could not have come at a better time for the construction, retail and commercial sectors in Queensland as we recover from the Global Financial Crisis."

The Premier said the project showed the importance of a collaborative approach between government, the RNA, Lend Lease and the Urban Land Development Authority.

The Government provided a $65 million seed loan from Queensland Treasury Corporation (QTC) for the Industrial Pavilion part of the development, with the UDLA facilitating the project through the approval of the RNA's Master Plan within the Bowen Hills Urban Development Area.

Ms Bligh said the design ensured respect for the history and heritage of the site while welcoming a new business and residential heart for the city.

Encompassing 5.5 hectares of the RNA Showgrounds site, the completed Showground Hill will be a showpiece for urban redevelopment, comprising 2,000 apartments, 145,000sqm of commercial office space; 20,000 sqm of retail space, including supermarkets and a fresh food market; and a hotel.

The first stage of the development will include 'The Green' comprising the first 300 residential apartments planned on the perimeter of the regenerated site. The Green will be adjacent to the new Main Street for Showground Hill and close to the site for the first of the commercial buildings, which will offer up to 30,000 square metres of office space.

Infrastructure work will begin almost immediately, including upgrading the 130 year old stormwater system and construction of 'The Green' will begin early in 2012.

Construction is timed to minimise disruption for next year's Ekka and over the life of the project, the public will notice new and improved facilities not just during the annual show, but for other major events.

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Couriermail --> Details revealed of re-development at RNA Showgrounds