A preferred developer was announced for the project on May 26, with Leighton Properties bagging the Northshore Hamilton contract. The company has been tasked with designing and building a mix of residential, retail and commercial properties on the estate.
The development could provide opportunities for apprenticeships and traineeships in Brisbane. Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning Jackie Trad confirmed the project is a boon for employment in the city.
“Hundreds of jobs will be created during the construction phase of Leighton’s proposed development and their design proposal also includes space for approximately 18 retail and service businesses,” she explained.
“With over 700 apartments planned, there will be a permanent residential population for businesses to service, as well as visitors to the planned parkland and new community swimming pool.”
The Queensland government intends to invest $20 million for a shared public precinct at the development and improvements to community infrastructure.
Ms Trad said Northshore Hamilton is among the country’s biggest urban regeneration initiatives, which will help revitalise 2.5 kilometres of Brisbane’s under-utilised riverfront land.
Developer interest high
A number of high-profile companies bid for the opportunity to work on the project due to its scale and prestige. According to Ms Trad, the competition has led to an excellent result for Brisbane residents.
“Understandably, this rare opportunity to develop a two-hectare parcel of land on Brisbane’s riverfront attracted top-tier developers, all bidding for the chance to turn it into something special,” she stated.
The design team included Ken Yeang, a Malaysian architect who has clinched more than 70 accolades for his work over a 25-year career. These include the Geneva Aga Khan Award for Architecture and the Prinz Claus Award in the Netherlands.
John Campbell, Leighton Properties Project Director, confirmed his organisation is delighted to have secured the contract on such a desirable scheme.
“We put a lot of thought into the public parkland and how to integrate it into the design of the apartments – and I think the result is quite unique,” he added.
Northshore Hamilton received a national award in May. The development landed the 2015 Property Council of Australia / Rider Levett Bucknall Innovation and Excellence Awards for a Government Leadership scheme.
By Leanne Macnamara, Public Affairs Coordinator
