Nothing too exciting, but an update none-the-less:

Thankyou for your enquiry on the status of the North Bank project. Following the completion of the options study phase a draft strategic plan was prepared that responded to the feedback recieved. Late last year the Queensland Government released the draft strategic plan, in the form of a pre-exposure report, to the Brisbane City Council. This action was taken to
allow the BCC an opportunity to comment on the plan prior to its release to the public. The BCC responded in late December requesting minor amendments to the plan. The plan has subsequently been amended and permission is currently being sought from Cabinet to release the amended plan to the
public for further comment.

Following the calling of the Queensland State Election in January the Government was placed in caretaker mode until the result of the election was known. This caused a minor delay to the release of the plan to the public. Now that the new Government has been formed It is expected that the draft North Bank Strategic Plan, as amended in response to BCC concerns, will be
released for public consultation in the near future. You are encouraged to view the plan and to provide comment at that time.

Thanks Brissy Phil.

This seems to have been dragging on forever. Interesting that there is to be a further period of public consultation.

Originally posted by duke
Thanks Brissy Phil.

This seems to have been dragging on forever. Interesting that there is to be a further period of public consultation.

well it is a absolutely massive area that they are planning. also with such a project everything would have to be perfect, just imagine if this stuffed up and became a white elephant.

i doubt anything built in brisbane can possibly become a white elephant, even if the end result is 'shite' there is always a market for it, especially in claaaarsy brissy

Originally posted by Danubis
i doubt anything built in brisbane can possibly become a white elephant, even if the end result is 'shite' there is always a market for it, especially in claaaarsy brissy

Actually I tend to think that this has a big possibility of becoming a white elephant and maybe even a total disaster if every aspect isn't done right... The other problem I have with it - without knowing much and looking at the plans, is that it may severely limit future upgrades of the riverside expressway, which I think is already starting to show it's age (although hopefully the tunnel will take some pressure off of it when that's finished).

I worry about this project too. To me it sounds like they would be building over the freeway, and therefore over the river, reducing the amount of open river and space. Also I'd like to think they would eventually burry the Riverside Expressway (pie in the sky perhaps?), and this project would reduce that chance.

It seems to me that there are probably other better places to build more highrises.

Said it before but in my own opinion the expressway is quite an elegant structure and it would be a shame to "build" over the top of it and cover it up...especially if they remove the Elizabeth St ramps which is what they are proposing...I think it is the busiest ramp into the cbd!

When I first heard of this I was quite excited but since I saw the proposals I have become less excited. I guess for me my first time in Brisbane was as a 13 year old at Expo and I dragged my family down to the river at every oportunity so I could look at the expressway. For me, it is a signature of Brisbane, I cant think of anywhere else that has such an impressive display. I really dont want to cover it up.

I would like to see better public spaces underneath but thats about it. If they are intending on taking away the Elizabeth St Ramps then I think they are going to severely damage city traffic.

I have to admit, I'm fond of the Expressway the way it is as well.
http://www.marcus-clark.com/photos/bne/A699%20Riverside%20Expressway%2C%20BNE.jpg

U/C early 70's
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/uhtbin/hyperion-image/BCC-B54-A1067

http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/uhtbin/hyperion-image/BCC-B120-14559

http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/uhtbin/hyperion-image/BCC-B54-40463

What it looked like in 1984
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/uhtbin/hyperion-image/BCC-B120-14606

Colour Pic from 1989 (?)
http://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/uhtbin/hyperion-image/BCC-T120-94625

I don't like the concept of the NorthBank proposal either. Removing the Elizabeth Streeter offramps would be a disaster. The site isn't suitable for towers and it would cost heaps to make it suitable. There is some potential to build above the Riverside Expressway from Queen Street to Adelaide Street, but that probably wouldn't be worth the bother!

When did they make the Riverside Expressway 3 lanes? You can still see the original 2 lane markings on the surface of the road.

^^
Although they always had the room for 3 lanes (6 lanes) on the xpressway (proper) and 4 lanes (8 lanes) on the Captain Cook they relaned it probably and Im not exactly sure when but around the early 90's. I remember seeing a photo back in December 90 with only 2 lanes on the SEFwy, captain cook approach in-bound and the stanley street lane merged into its own lane onto the captain cook. The captain cook only used to be 3 lanes each with wider lanes and a bit of shoulder room, then they made it 4 lanes each - narrower lanes and no shoulders.

Running the risk of being flamed, I really like the expressway, and always have, it has great architectural lines, and certainly everyone I've had visit from down south is actually impressed by it. My biggest problem with it is that it ends. Personally I'd like to see it link with Hale St (with out bottle neck lights), and with the Western Freeway (but that's another story).
In the last 10 years Brisbane has developed a nack of creating more and more traffic bottle necks (or just moving them around). There also seems to be a talent in creating sections of road where everyone entering in the left lane wants to move right, and everyone in the right lane wants to move left (e.g., the expressway off ramps to Margaret St, and most of North Quay). Anyway that's my rant.

Brizguy

Here is a photo I found of the Riverside Xpressway U/C during the '74 floods.................. I can't imagine the Brisbane River ever that high................... I know things are different these days with drainage, dams etc... but could you imagine Northbank if this flood were to occur again????
http://lookingback.slq.qld.gov.au/images/slide075e.jpg

I think to make the fwy look good from southbank, just chuck some coloured lights on underneath it or something.


As for a 1974 flood happening again, It would be a massive disaster for residents, business and insurance companies. It would seriously damage state and council reelection chances as the opposition parties would be blaming the govt for not doing enough.

i think its a good arguement to inrease green house emmissions.... we dont want another '74 happening again do we.

The riverside may be impressive in some respects but it is such a shameful waste of riverfront land. In the so called "river-city" it always saddens part of me when looking accross from southbank to see the riverfront devoted to cars and traffic. I suppose there wouldn't have been any other options when it was built though, it really is like the aorta of brisbane, without it the city would die of heart failure.

i completely agree, on the otherside of the CBD around Peir 9 and The Riverside centre there is so much more city atmosphere then say South Bank looking over to the city, It is a waste but neccessary.

What is quite sad (...well ironic) is the most pictures by tourists are taken from South Bank and this is the one which they are likely to remember, which must be said to be a pitiful view in comparison to the one from KP. Northbank will make it better but more classy (or glassy) towers such as Brisbane Square will be required.

i think its a good arguement to inrease green house emmissions.... we dont want another '74 happening again do we.

INCREASE???? :weirdo:

I like the Riverside Expressway, but I think they need to re-paint it the same colours as they did the PoB Motorway. They should also put some multi-coloured lights in there, but make sure it doesn't look tacky. And I think they need to do a few face-lifts on some of the buildings on this side of town, because most are really bad :cough: Parliament Annex :cough: 111 George Street :cough:

They told me to expect news at the end of this month

who's they blend? the lepricorn that also tells you to burn things?

Article in the Brisbane News on this titled " Bleak outlook for northbank". Went on to say that basically no developer would touch it without government subsidy because they have to build across up to 10 lanes of expressway, plus other engineering issues. It also said it would not be viable economically for at least 15 years. i think the thing that may really kill it though is that David Hinchcliffe says " the area had the highest concentration of heritage buildings in Brisbane and needed to be protected".

thats really unfortunate. I hope it still goes ahead. this is one of my favourite development.s

north bank is important, especially some of its propsed features. if not all it would be nice to see some of the development undertaken!

thanks bribri. i tried to post exactly what you said the other day but my server crashed when i clicked submit.

thats crap for northbank. something really needs to be done there. :mad:

That developers wouldnt want to participate was mentioned when the plan first came out, so that isn't exactly a surprise. If the government is that serious than they will also chip a bit of money in...

As for the heritage issues, this was taken into account in the plan and really only affects one of the 5 sections. From what i'd heard this wasn't a problem....the buildings are not to get in the way of the vista of the heritage buildings.

It will be interesting to see how it turns out....

Any news on Northbank? I haven't heard anything about it in ages?

Currently i believe theyre working out which developer gets what (bidding for contracts isnt it?)

Dunno how long it will be before another official announcement.

Any news on Northbank? I haven't heard anything about it in ages?

Still no updates on the website this year....

I think it can go either way:

a) They (re)announce the project to make the government look as if they are working on the project, to try and give the government some good publicity after the loss of two seats.
b) You'll hear nothing until closer to the next state election.

Currently i believe theyre working out which developer gets what (bidding for contracts isnt it?)

Dunno how long it will be before another official announcement.

Yep, Malts right. There was an article in the Citynews a few months ago that I paraphrased in a northbank thread (that doesn't seem to be arround anymore). The goverment has given out the guidelines for the project and if developers are interested they can create a plan and submit it. Submissions close late this year (possibly by now but I think it was October or November and it stated that the decision should be given in mid 2006.

Today in AFR there was an advertisement for expressions of interests for North Bank Development Stage 1.
Just talked about the concept and what the government wants - another few points:
>>this EOI is for the first stage between Victoria Bridge and Alice Street (incorporating tourist, retail and entertainment precinct)
>> Must be submitted by 23 January 2006

northbank is the media again. today in citynews, there was an article that stated the govt are willing to allow developers to alter the initial plans released last year to reflect the vision of the CBD Draft Masterplan. It also said they would be willing to allow taller developments as well.

positive news on this one at last!

That's good, but I still really loved some of the designs from the current proposal. I love the idea of "coves" surrounded by buildings then leading into the city.

Good news... Looks like this project is slowly coming along. This is from the courier mail today, the 18 of feb 06.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/1070/scannb7oj.th.jpg (http://img101.imageshack.us/my.php?image=scannb7oj.jpg) :)

excellent!
lets hope these tests give good results

Yes. This is easily one of the projects I most care about

me too - its disappointing that so many tourists view the city from south bank
and all you see is a massive spaghetti freeway network along the bank of the river


it will be great to cover it up and have something that will complement southbank!

^
Yep, all that road combined with a few tragic buildings has made that side of the city lacking. Unfortunately it is also the most photographed aspect of the CBD if most image hosters are to be gone by.

I can only hope that whoever does take on the project does it properly.

it needs to be something creative and unique
not a boring clutter of average buildings

Peopl are always talkin about - trying to create an icon or an x-factor for brissie - and I think this could be the opportunity - however, I reckon it'll end up being a pleasing, yet mediocre venture...

I can see why developers wouldn't touch it. It definatley is a much needed project but im scared that the buildings will sort of well... look like crap. The renders seem nice but the end product could be much different. I think the buildings should compliment the podiums from brisbane square.

^
The renders that are available for NB are of the old plan and unlikely consistant with the eventual project - the government removed the guidelines for the projects, allowing developers freedom to plan what they want. So while developers may have had issues with the previous design, it is impossible to say that 'developers wouldn't touch it'.

Peopl are always talkin about - trying to create an icon or an x-factor for brissie - and I think this could be the opportunity - however, I reckon it'll end up being a pleasing, yet mediocre venture...

That it is developers who have full control unfortunately doesn't promise much for iconic design. Though perhaps we'll be surprised.

The initial ones were only artists impressions anyway, not renders.

even if it does turn out medicore, it will still be 100% better then what is there currently, which absolute shit.

I wonder what will happen with the helicopter platoon

Looks like it's starting to come together:

From yesterday's CM:
Momentum builds for Brisbane's NorthBank

FOUR major development companies are vying for the right to reshape the face of Brisbane's North Bank into a vibrant public river edge. Expressions of interest for the development have closed and the State Government will now consider submissions by the four -- Lend Lease Developments, Multiplex, Property Solutions Group and QM Properties.

The State Government had extended the period for submissions in an effort to ensure those developers keen to be involved in the project had a chance to do so. The North Bank site extends along the 2km stretch of Brisbane CBD waterfront from the Goodwill Bridge to the William Jolly Bridge, into the Brisbane River and up to William St and North Quay. Plans must retain the Riverside Expressway, be environmentally responsible, involve the private sector and provide maximum public benefit.

The first stage will focus on the parcel of riverfront land between the Victoria St Bridge and Alice St. It is envisaged it would target the tourist appeal of the city and provide a "continuous vibrant" public river edge. Deputy Premier Anna Bligh was uncontactable yesterday but released a statement about the project which she hopes would transform the forgotten North Bank area of Brisbane's river. "The North Bank area really is one of the key areas not only of the Brisbane River but of Brisbane's CBD and it deserves some type of transformation," she said. She said with the right attention to detail it had the potential to become one of Brisbane's most exciting emerging areas.

Ms Bligh said the calibre of bidders was high and the expressions of interest would be evaluated quickly. "The assessment process by the Co-ordinator General's office began immediately after the deadline for submissions on Tuesday," she said. Ms Bligh said the quality of those who had lodged submissions was "extremely impressive".

"The Government looks forward to the Co-ordinator-General's report on the EOIs so that an informed decision on the future of this exciting project can be made."

All four groups which have lodged expressions of interest have been responsible for a number of significant residential and mixed- use projects in Queensland. Kevin Miller of Property Solutions said their submission was for a less intensive project on the site, which would limit any traffic problems.

It also includes the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron as an operator of the marina on the site and a Brisbane club house for the organisation. Delfin Lend Lease regional general manager Andrew Brimblecombe said they were very excited about the potential to be involved in the project.

"It is a huge project and I think it will be one likely to change the face of not only that part of Brisbane but the face of Brisbane completely," he said.

Ok, that is too good! i'm so excited! :)

I dont think this is going to provide the X-Factor that your looking for because this boardwalk thing has been done all before, but for the tourists and the people of Brisbane it will provide a healthy alternative to Southbank in terms of riverside recreation.

I hope one of the Developers plans something bold, and dont try to be safe and boring. If one of them does I am sure they will be selected, because of the current Council and Premier...

So is this a BCC or the QLD Govt project?

If its the BCC i expect to see something better then what the state govt could offer, they have been really lacklustre in there designs for projects theve done lately

^
Qld government

A Marina, Yacht club, Five-Star Hotel! and a tavern are some of the ideas for NB , also no residential because of the noise! Here's an article from City News... which i thinks the best paper for new developments in Brisbane. :) sorry about the quality...

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/8193/citynewsnorthbankmedium2yr.th.png (http://img102.imageshack.us/my.php?image=citynewsnorthbankmedium2yr.png)

http://www.skyscrapercity.com/photopost/data/504/379norbankarticleFinRev09Mar06.JPG

As long as it gets built, i'm happy... :)

I'm still abit puzzled and can't picture in my head how and where exactly they are going to build these facilities. Will they be built right under the freeway. And if so, how are people supposed to access it? Just walk straight under the freeway from North Quay?? Or will there be some sort of walkway? :|

If there's room and it can be done, I reckon a new cultural centre would be good, and get rid of the piece of shit that is there currently. Make a land mark for Brisbane.

I'm still abit puzzled and can't picture in my head how and where exactly they are going to build these facilities. Will they be built right under the freeway. And if so, how are people supposed to access it? Just walk straight under the freeway from North Quay?? Or will there be some sort of walkway? :|

I would have thought such information would have been contained in this thread, but seemingly it isn't.

Some facilities will be built above the road, underneath and next to the river (but not underneath) - essentialy the development is to cover up the view of the road from South Brisbane. Access will be from North Quay, Williams street, Victoria Bridge and QUT/the Brisbane Botanic Gardens.

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510273&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510275&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510276&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510278&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510279&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?id=9510288&noresize=1

The important thing to note is that this plan is not being rigidly aheared to, with developers given freedom of design. The general belief, though Kevin Miller seemingly diagrees, is that the eventual plan will be more extensive and higher density that what is shown above.

^^ Very darling harbour - looks great (even for a just example...)

I wish Bris Square actually looked like that render, and was that tall.

Where did you get those photos?? they are so good! I love this project!

I wish Bris Square actually looked like that render, and was that tall.

Lol - I thought the same thing! (more about the height, I am pretty happy with how it looks now).

The 'artist impressions' look good for this project, however I do worry about how much of the actual river we will lose.

yeah artist impression looks great... if only the river was that blue too! :-)

THis is desperately what brisbane needs too. Its meant to be the river city, yet there is actually very little along the river in terms of cafe's etc. As great as south bank is, there's only the greek and chinese restaurant ON the river, and then the small cluster down the very end near goodwill. Then there's riverside great spot with great restaurnats, but there's not much there to just chill out at... most are fairly expensive. A strip along the river with cafes and bistros and bars would be AWESOME!!

Thanks Orfeo for the pics. Looks fantastic! :) But I hope the width of the river won't decrease that much. I wouldn't want the Brisbane river to end up looking like the Yarra. :ohno:

**bump**

Any updates on Northbank??

This is one of my fav developments! and yet no action! I emailed the guy and he replied and said that the proposals were pending... well its been like 2 years! >(

I think we were all hoping that this would have been an election issue but then along came Health and Water :-(

On ten news has a few urban planners saying the Riverside expressway should be put underground and light rail should run along northbank into the CBD and out to New farm.

Riverside Expressway will never be put underground. The expense would be so enormous and the traffic problems during construction would be phenomenal.

I actually was thinking about a week ago (before this happened) that ther should be a tunnel starting at the SE Freeway where the NSBT starts and then finish at Coro Drive and run underneath Albert Street with all streets intersecting it while they demolish the Riverside Expressway.

Good to see a tunnel has been suggested!!

I disagree Brizzy.

They wouldnt have done it voluntarily beforehand, but now they are already in the situation and it is an option

I did a google search and found http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/index.shtm

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for State Development, Trade and Innovation
The Honourable Anna Bligh
Wednesday, July 05, 2006

North Bank bidders short-listed: Bligh


Deputy Premier Anna Bligh today released the short-list of bidders invited to participate in the proposed Stage 1 redevelopment of Brisbane’s ‘’forgotten’’ riverfront precinct North Bank. Stage 1 of the North Bank project occupies the riverfront land between the Victoria Bridge and Alice Street.

Ms Bligh said the three developers short-listed by the Office of the Coordinator General after a call for Expressions of Interest earlier this year were:

Multiplex
Lend Lease Developments and
The Property Solutions Group
“This is a project which will transform the area which is often referred to as Brisbane’s forgotten riverfront precinct.

“It will transform it into a vibrant people place on the riverfront and gives us the opportunity to create a diversity of leisure and entertainment amenities, public plazas and commercial and residential facilities.

“It also aims to make one of the greatest stretches of Brisbane River frontage safer and more accessible for all.”

Ms Bligh said the next stage of the Development Bid process sought further clarification from the developers in relation to detailed development plans, costings and details of their technical and financial capacity to successfully deliver the project.

Submissions on this detailed binding bid stage close on 27 September this year. Ms Bligh said the Coordinator General would then prepare a report on the submissions which would be finalised later this year.

“Then an informed decision can be made on the future of this exciting project,” Ms Bligh said.

Media inquiries: 3224 6900

God I just hope they don't balls this up...

Maybe a tunnel should of been built here instead of the NSBT? Not saying the NSBT is a waste but it could of been put back a few years for some beautification instead?

NSBT?

U mean Riverside Expressway.

Anyways, yes it is a waste of very expensive land.
I hope the ann St onramp collapses taking half the espressway with it.

^^ lol, that's what i was hoping too. :D

NSBT?

U mean Riverside Expressway.

No I didnt mean the Riverside Expressway.

What I ment was that if one of the idea's is to build a tunnel under the Riverside Expressway, then maybe they could do this instead of building the NSBT.

Unfortunately for the moment I dont think there is enough money anywhere to replace Riverside Exp with a tunnel, not without a toll which I dont think any level of govt would approve. Hoping half the expressway collapses is a tempting thought in a perfect world where replacement could be instant, but really that would just throw the cities traffic into further turmoil, were gonna have enough of that over the next 10 years.

The expressway is absolutely vital and has to stay, besides building a tunnel underneath it to do exactly the same thing would be hella expensive and the money could be put to much better uses, such as building or improving new freeways to the sunshine coast or GC or wherever, this is especially the case as Northbank is able to accomodate the expressway anyway.

It would be nice to see some tall highrises in the northbank proposals, running all the way along the river, at least 130m high as that would work well to block all the ugly concrete govt and QUT buildings on that side of town, because they really are eyesores. Every time I walk across the goodwill bridge I think 'man those buildings are just flat out fugly and so prominently placed!'.

No I didnt mean the Riverside Expressway.

What I ment was that if one of the idea's is to build a tunnel under the Riverside Expressway, then maybe they could do this instead of building the NSBT.

well hell. if we are going to do that I have another idea - how about we forget about upgrading brisbane airport and build a new one in toowoomba.
as if!

ok ok, it was just an idea.thats all :runaway: :)

The expressway is absolutely vital and has to stay, besides building a tunnel underneath it to do exactly the same thing would be hella expensive and the money could be put to much better uses, such as building or improving new freeways to the sunshine coast or GC or wherever, this is especially the case as Northbank is able to accomodate the expressway anyway.

It would be nice to see some tall highrises in the northbank proposals, running all the way along the river, at least 130m high as that would work well to block all the ugly concrete govt and QUT buildings on that side of town, because they really are eyesores. Every time I walk across the goodwill bridge I think 'man those buildings are just flat out fugly and so prominently placed!'.

Yah exactly! What everyone forgets is that tunnels dont replace the need to get on and get off at the various points along the riverside expressway, thats why its so busy as its the main point for vehicles entering & exiting the city, a tunnel would just by pass that ie the NS Bypass Tunnel so would therefore not be a suitable replacement.

Good news! Pedestrian Bridge INCLUDED IN 1 DESIGN! It will be either Multiplex or Lend Lease who develops northbank...
Lets BET! I bet Lend Lease
The two Architecture companies - Cox (http://www.cox.com.au/) & Hassell (http://www.hassell.com.au/)
From Todays CM
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i16/soulvisionQ1/scan-1.jpg

sounds good, although im not sure on having 'another bridge'. i didnt think the victoria bridge could handle much more traffic. apparently it couldnt even handle shade awnings so how could it handle more traffic.

if another bridge were to be built, then there would be 4 bridges (2 ped, 2 vehicle) within 200m and 9 bridges within 2km. (capt cook, goodwill, proposed ped, vic bridge, adelaide bus bridge, north quay ped, william jolly, merivale & hale st)

besides the bridge issue, its good to hear there is progress on northbank, a desparately needed development for brisbane to fix up past mistakes from the terrible 70's & 80's.

and did i hear 'NEW executive building. hopefully the existing square turd will be demolished!

Yes please to the new executive building!!!!!!! As for another pedestrian bridge right next to Victoria Bridge, I still think Victoria Bridge should be bus and pedestrian only, get rid of the cars off Victoria Bridge, it would have to have the least amount of traffic of all the bridges in the inner city anyway. But since thats highly unlikely lets hope for a nice design!!! This all sounds very promising, I hope they deliver!!!!

If the Vic bridge can't handle any more weight.... isn't it smart to build another bridge??

lets hope it is hassell , Cox has done too much stuff of late

So would this mean there would be three bridges in a row? I think two is a much more sensible idea, though is it possible to have a two story bridge? Say for cars/buses on the bottom and light rail on the top? Then a bridge devoted to pedestrians.

Yeah i agree chowie! Cox has had its go... as long as Hassell comes out with a beaut design, ill be happy. ;)

....

Jeepers Creepers! I didn't recognise that as Brisbane for a while.

Looks great. Funky bridge.

What is that tallish tower? The Buildings are a bit of a mixed bunch but I'm guessing this is more for massing at this stage.

..

Wow that is amazing. The city is almost unrecognisable. I truly hope the Northbank project goes ahead soon - walking under an old expressway with awful mangroves in the middle of a large city isn't all that pleasant and definately needs a makeover.

will there be any developments along the expressway north of Victoria? There are quite a few homeless camping under the expressway if you jog from Victoria to Milton along the bikeway. Also, the walk from CBD to Milton is quite hard to negotiate, with a huge abandoned warehouse in the way.

Like the look of that taller tower particularly from this angle:

http://img216.imageshack.us/img216/5387/northbankbristowerdh2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Oh my god! That looks incredible!!

Nice.

holy shit. what a news day. this is awesome! brisbane needs this sooooo bad. that river bank is an eyesore, especially from southbank. and being under the freeway even during the day promotes an unsafe vibe.

my only critisism is the resi towers. they dont appeal to me. we all have to remember that this is only conceptual! those glassy towers would look great if they came to fruition

thats just fantastic

100x better then the first northbank concepts

I agree with the consensus - I think this is a great design (from what I can see) and will improve the look of the city on that side - feels very melbourne-ish to me...

very impressed! its going to make the city unrecognisable in that area - in a good way. does anyone know if there is scope to eventually extend this up and down this part of the river? - across most of the riverside expressway

If Northbank can be pulled off then that side of town will go from an ugly duckling to belle of the ball.

Of course by then the golden triangle will have Vision,480,Eagle Street Pier and GPT.

That was the first thing I thought when I saw the pics - and it's definately not a bad thing! Love them, would love to see something very similar come to fruition!

...feels very melbourne-ish to me...

OMG....this looks fantastic....I almost did'nt recognise that its Brissie!!!.. :applause: its beautiful (and yes, it does look a little Melbourne-ish)...

Took me a while to realize that was Brisvegas I was looking at! Fantastic stuff.

I wonder if the lass in question got permission to post those pics before putting them up on the web? They only went up on Wednesday - perhaps an announcement is pending? :banana:

Amazing

Has anyone noticed that in the renders the ramp from the south bound lanes to elizabeth street is missing and elizabeth street is one way.

^^ i meant two way

^^ As part of the new city plan they are removing that onramp, and making Elizabeth St 2-way, I think that's right....

Totally awesome. The govt really needs to make an effort to make north bank look world class. No point getting visitors to South Bank only to look across the river at mangroves and an expressway

The Pedestrian bridge will be a great link to Southbank, that will be a very pleasent walk from Queen Street Mall to Southbank and on the way back to the mall should be a top view of Empire Square from that bridge.

I like it.

If you look at the night renders from southbank, does anyone know what the lit glass box looking thing on the city side of the victoria bridge is?!?!

Looks awesome, although I too am not too sure about the brown buildings, if they were a different colour it would make all the difference. I had thought that the building that is currently next to the Elizabeth st ramps where the large tower stands was heritage listed but it must just be the older section.

Clearly these renders are just concepts as there are some things in the renders that dont make sense, such as the disappearance of the Casino Carpark entrance and exit but overall it looks fantastic. Loving the building next to parliament!!!!

I would really prefer lower scale buildings with only enough height to screen the freeway and no taller than that. The casino, lands admin building, the commisariat stores and all of the other George street colonial wonders are really quite beautiful. And it would be nice to create a layered efect when you look acros from city. Where you can see them above the northbank strip of development.

Those tower proposals are so generic and could be anywhere in the world. Lets preserve a little of the sense that this place was where Brisbane first met the river - which is why all of these important colonial buildings were built here.

Colonial buildings.................................................Grey Street
......................northank........................southbank...............
.................................~~~~river~~~~..............................

The above would be such a beautiful arrangement, and would actually be 'Brisbane.'

I am aware that such building heights may be required to offset the cost of building over the freeway and setting up river foundations, but i really think the state governement should severely restrict the height here.

Looks awesome, although I too am not too sure about the brown buildings, if they were a different colour it would make all the difference. I had thought that the building that is currently next to the Elizabeth st ramps where the large tower stands was heritage listed but it must just be the older section.

Clearly these renders are just concepts as there are some things in the renders that dont make sense, such as the disappearance of the Casino Carpark entrance and exit but overall it looks fantastic. Loving the building next to parliament!!!!

These sort of renders are made to indicate to governemnt bodies or private investors the potential building and GFA envelopes. I wouldnt take much notice of the actual designs themself.

No QLD character in my opinion, very disappointing, the river looks narrow and awkward, hiding many beautifull heritage sites. The original plan done by Cox (well the one I saw years ago) I think it was was nicer, lower and had alot more QLD feel to it. Too bling for Brissy...

Just what is QLD character? Ugly concrete buildings? Or let me guess buildings designed to look like a giant queenslander, or a giant verandah like the art gallery?

Well I've had quite enough of that Queenslander feel if that's the case.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3906/nb1vy9.jpg

Nice display of passion.

WTF! 111 George is a great building.

Anyway, I agree with Brizbane2, this project is too dense for this area and would hide a lot of the character buildings behind them. The original proposal had a much better scale to it, and seemed a lot more inviting, rather than a towering mess of buildings right on the river. The odd tall building is ok (like on the site next to Parliament), but elsewhere a little bit more thought is needed.

Well I mean if you look in that picture you can't even see any heritage buildings, so the only thing we would be preserving are those old 70's designs.

Wouldn't you guys prefer to have some international architects come in and design some world class new buildings/complex in front of that? Something that the people can actually interact with as well? I don't get it.

I just hate the look of this side of the river running to QUT with a passion, it's devoid of architectural merit.

i agree with locke this time. the only buildings worth keeping exposed are the treasury and conrad hotel. alll the rest are an eye sore which need some sort of improvment and i hope north bank will be that.

Brisbane looks too much like 2 different cities. From Riverside it looks new and modern and thriving, and looking across from southbank, brisbane looks like a city stuck in the 60s and 70s. North Bank and North Quay will go along way to changing this.

Would be amazing to drive under it all

Locke is correct. screw this 'queensland' style you speak of.

Brisbane is a modern subtropical city. Reclaim our river and have a good view. Cover up these 70s boxes.

And it is entirely possible, look at any city.. Sydney, Melbourne, they have just as many ugly boxes... but theyre outweighed so much by the great looking ones that u hardly notice them. Thats what we need, and this is how that needs to be done

Well that's the thing, you only need a comparatively small number of pretty towers to create the appearance of an attractive skyline.

Now the problem with the current area around the proposed Northbank, and the problem with any low rise Northbank solution is that there are no stand out designs there. So what happens? The eye wanders and tries to search for something to focus on... but there is only this wall of 70's concrete!

By contrast go to the other side of town, well even though there are only a small number of glass towers there relative to the concrete you get a totally different impression.

So those tower are absolutely necessary as a focal point. Especially the all glass one on the right.

Looking at the renders that we have to work off, it would really only be necessary to take out the mid rise in front of the glass tower at the casino end, and take out the left pair (as viewed from Southbank) of brown buildings and you have opened up the views of all the heritage listed buildings in the area.

I do think that keeping these few heritage buildings visible is important, but I do think that Considerable height on the edge of the river will give this side of the city a suitable visual impact for the 21st century.

As for the comment that the river looks narrow......Are you kidding? Go to any other river city in Australia (Melbourne in particular) and then have another look.

Well keep in mind that there is the site of the new Executive Building(between William St, Margaret St, Alice St and the Riverside Expressway)(lets hope that's a big, glassy design) and I wish they would knock down the old State Mining Centre(the one between William Street and George Street which crosses over Margaret Street). Then lets also hope that the current Executive Building can have a make-over--State Law Building style

Then also remember that the new building on George Street built next to City Plaza which is going to hold Telstra is a big glassy building which will have a big exposure to the river because there's just the Supreme Court between it and the River.

Just what is QLD character? Ugly concrete buildings? Or let me guess buildings designed to look like a giant queenslander, or a giant verandah like the art gallery?

Well I've had quite enough of that Queenslander feel if that's the case.

http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/3906/nb1vy9.jpg


those buildings 100% need to be screened. they do not deserve the light of day. they are hideous (locke i think u mistook 111 george for casino towers. lol)

the whole queensland image IMO doesnt extend to heritage buildings like the casino and comisserates stores. they are very european buildings. the queensland character belongs in the suburbs and for lower density developments and also for footpaths of the CBD such as the mall. very queensland!!!!!!. what goes up in the air is a totally different statement. brisbane really needs to shake off the ugly western side image. it is hideous! anything like this brings us into the next century!

Right, so what's the actual chance of this (or similar) going ahead? and what would be a guestimate in terms of time frame from now? 8-10 years?

LORDY!!!!!! How did i miss all this!?! We'll i gotta say the architects are pretty much on the money, lets hope it doesn't get watered down and sterilized. Loving the curves and the glass, my only dislike is yet another bridge.

Just out of interest what are peoples thoughts on the actual built height of the towers over the expressway, the renders seem a little too fantasy almost, especially considering that it is impossible for underground parking.

More pics from the Skyscraperlife web site (Credit to SoulVision):

Jumping grasshoppers!

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/8752/untitled1lk1.jpg

has anyone had a guess at each buildings height yet?

They look to be around 160m tall, bit taller than Brisbane Square.

The glass one on the right has almost a Norman Foster vibe to it. Looks very interesting potentially on that night shot.

Town planners never listened to Robin Gibson when he spoke out ages ago when Brissy started getting taller, he said the taller buildings should be at the higher end of brisbane and taper down to the river - personally I think he was spot on, but never happened, now look and what they've done with the state library, killed it, I want to cover it up with a big blanket. Robin himself is mortified what they've done to it...

And what I mean about QLD feel it it look to confined, busy and cramped, not the open lifestyle we (I) love, go back through this thread and see how many people say it "looks like Melbourne"... No one will go to Melbourne and say it looks like Brisbane.. :ohno:


PS - I'm not against this development, whether I like it or not it pays my wages, so meh...

In that design I very much like the new bridge and also the glass towers at either end of Northbank, but I REALLY don't like that tall building near Elizabeth Street. There shouldn't be anything blocking the view of the casino. And besides, the design of that one is just shit.

I don't buy the low-rise by the river theory.

What you see with the present north side is that theory in action. Low rise QUT, sub 100m govt buildings, big long wide govt buildings.

And how did that turn out - an eyesore.

No surprise then that the Golden Triangle end with the tallest buildings is considered the most attractive side of town. Fact is, taller tower usually attract more money and better architects.

So what if there are two high rise towers towers (I mean they aren't even tall anyway), I guarantee you they will be the architectural highlights of the plan, not the lowrise residentials that go in between. We got enough balconies thanks.

As for it looking Melbournish, yeah it looks a bit Docklands or a bit Dubai Marina, in either case they are hardly negative comparisons.

Town planners never listened to Robin Gibson when he spoke out ages ago when Brissy started getting taller, he said the taller buildings should be at the higher end of brisbane and taper down to the river - personally I think he was spot on, but never happened, now look and what they've done with the state library, killed it, I want to cover it up with a big blanket. Robin himself is mortified what they've done to it...

And what I mean about QLD feel it it look to confined, busy and cramped, not the open lifestyle we (I) love, go back through this thread and see how many people say it "looks like Melbourne"... No one will go to Melbourne and say it looks like Brisbane.. :ohno:


PS - I'm not against this development, whether I like it or not it pays my wages, so meh...

Couldn't agree with you more. What has been done to the Gibson designed State Library is just horrendous. Timothy Hill should hang his head in shame for being such a vandal. You can just tell the Hill addition plus his wrecking of the Gibson building will date very quickly.

In that design I very much like the new bridge and also the glass towers at either end of Northbank, but I REALLY don't like that tall building near Elizabeth Street. There shouldn't be anything blocking the view of the casino. And besides, the design of that one is just shit.

i suspect that the towers are necessary to make the project financially viable for the developers.

[QUOTE]
Wouldn't you guys prefer to have some international architects come in and design some world class new buildings/complex in front of that? Something that the people can actually interact with as well? I don't get it.
QUOTE]

Sure I would. But one can just as easily (if not more easily) interact with a low scale building. Im ok with building taller along other parts of northbank, (perhaps up to 15 storeys) just not in front of the casino, and lands admin building.

Well there isn't really one proposed in front of the Casino is there?

Well of course, there is Brisbane Square, but it's already there.

So, out of interest, it begs the question...

Would people trade Brisbane Square for a 10 level building or no building at all on the Brisbane Square site?

There are obvious pararells with the proposed hotel tower near the Land Admins Building. Theoretically people should feel the same about both.

But I hazard to guess most ppl would want to keep Brisbane Square.

Thing is, even low rise would block the land titles building view, so it's tall or nothing really.

Brissy square had restriction on the ground floor, hence the building doesn't actually start at level one, the brief was you had to be able to look through it to see the casino..

In terms of time frame, I'd expect this to gain momentum closer to when the current crop of commercial towers are finished - so 3 or so years away...

I really think that the thing that screwed up all the Heritage in the area was all the lowrise in front that entirely blocks it, and the expressway. This design does well at eliminating those eyesores and still making the project viable!

Doesn't give much away:

http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/about/index.shtm

I decided to study the propsal pictured a bit more and come up with some ideas that would help me live with it:

- Ditch the pedestrian bridge (surely we aren't that lazy to use the bridges either side).

- Loose the light box thingy at the Vic bridge end.

- Continue the board walk further around to QUT (and link to the North quay bike way better, perhaps even a large open ampitheatre at the far right of the precinct with a nice LCD TV for special occassions like the one they're putting up in KGS.

- Push the whole thing back a touch to it sits above the expressway, keeping the river nice and wide.

- Can't seem to make out where the city cat terminals will be now.

- Change the floodlights to Parliament Building from the ucky HPS lamps to perhaps a cooler temp. metal halide.

- Ditch the pedestrian bridge (surely we aren't that lazy to use the bridges either side).



I'm sure I read that the point of the pedestrian bridge is so that extra lanes can be created on Victoria bridge by taking away the existing walkway?

Not sure why they'd need more lanes if the Hale st bridge goes ahead. Can't see more than one lane being able to fit anyways.

I like the idea of the pedestrian bridge, I'd rather walk in relative peace on that bridge in the shade than next to noisy buses and cars in the sun. Plus it would link in better to Southbank than is currently the case, and more importantly to Northbank itself. Added to that it's an attractive design.

I'm curious what the other proposal looks like now, who knows could be even better.

I understand the convenience factor, but from asthetics point of view how many river crossings is too many.

I've been trying to dig up other concepts all arvo with no luck :(

It's not the amount of river crossings that are good or bad, but the quality of them. There are cities such as Berlin, Paris and London with heaps of river crossings and it is part of what makes them attractive cities.

^^ I really really dig that S-shaped bridge, it really adds some much needed character. And depending on what is in the buildings on the Northbank side, near that bridge, this bridge may be quite handy. Especially if it's a really large hotel, where direct access to Southbank would be required.

Loving the S bridge. My opinion is that the more river crossings we have - the better...

I agree if we are talking about the city reaches. Most of the road hierarchy outside the CBD isn't set up for it though. I would like to see the Adelaide Street Bridge go ahead for public transport only (LRT to southern suburbs and West End, replacement for Victoria Bridge portion and pedestrians/cyclists), the Milton pedestrian bridge, Hale Street and possibly another ped to KP, although we already have the ferries.

I like it.

i suspect that the towers are necessary to make the project financially viable for the developers.

Point taken, but there are more suitable locations for such towers. I love the Treasury Building and I think that it just looks fantastic and nothing should block out the view of it. from the river. If the tower was moved south to say Elizabeth Street, I'd be fine with it because at least then it would be closer to Empire Square and it would make the skyline look more balanced.

^^ Macca-GC I really cringe every time I see a post by you, because of the "Vote 1: John Howard".

But anyway, the Treasury Building is fantastic, though I'm not sure that any of these towers would block the view. There may be a tower in front of the Treasury Hotel building (I'm not sure the name of this one), but not the Treasury Building, where the Victoria Bridge and North Quay City Cat stop is, there'd be no practical room to build a scraper. The tall one looked as though it may block Casino Towers if anything (I can't seem to see these pictures of the renders any more, for some unknown reason).

Yeah Macca-GC, There are no buildings in front of the treasury casino and the tower is situated on the south side of Elizabeth St already which puts it directly in line with Empire Square.

Agreed about the vote 1 Howard thing (cringe). Perhaps uneccesary - but anyway...

^^ Macca-GC I really cringe every time I see a post by you, because of the "Vote 1: John Howard".

But anyway, the Treasury Building is fantastic, though I'm not sure that any of these towers would block the view. There may be a tower in front of the Treasury Hotel building (I'm not sure the name of this one), but not the Treasury Building, where the Victoria Bridge and North Quay City Cat stop is, there'd be no practical room to build a scraper. The tall one looked as though it may block Casino Towers if anything (I can't seem to see these pictures of the renders any more, for some unknown reason).

The tower near the Elizabeth Street ramps and the low rise buildings will block the view of the treasury from certain angles. The view from the Victoria Bridge was always going to be preserved but it is the view from certain parts of Southbnak that wil be affected.

Point of interest: The retaining walls immediately to east of the Vic bridge are heritage listed and must be kept. I think the annexe on the old state library building is as well.

^^ Macca-GC I really cringe every time I see a post by you, because of the "Vote 1: John Howard".

Yeah well in relation to that you can just kiss my ass and deal with it.:)

But anyway, the Treasury Building is fantastic, though I'm not sure that any of these towers would block the view. There may be a tower in front of the Treasury Hotel building (I'm not sure the name of this one), but not the Treasury Building, where the Victoria Bridge and North Quay City Cat stop is, there'd be no practical room to build a scraper. The tall one looked as though it may block Casino Towers if anything (I can't seem to see these pictures of the renders any more, for some unknown reason).

I can't find the pictures either, sorry, I was getting my locations confused. The building was on the river side of Queens Square. So that would be just on the south side of Elizabeth Street. I think it would be better if the building was located further south(between Charlotte and Mary Streets) so as not to block the view of Treasury from Southbank.

They surely cannot protect the view of heritage buildings from every single angle possible forever. It will still have great sight line, and for the wandering eye of the tourist, it'll be a nice surprise if they can't see it from one angle and just see this beautiful modern building, then walk further down southbank, and they can see the treasury.

toadman.

toadman.

Yeah, I had my name changed in the Christmas-New Year thing. So what?

obviously an aspirational type

i like the designs

also, make John Howard our dictator and abolish the money wasting obsession of politics

..

More info here. No images yet though:

http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/proposal/index.shtm

Q150 Monument - Great cities of the world have instantly identifiable and iconic monuments that symbolise their heritage and success. They add enormous value to these cities as perpetual promoters around the world as they are photographed by visitors from around the globe. Multiplex will provide the People of Queensland with a permanent monument as a tribute to the State’s achievements over the past 150 years, and act as a beacon for what can be achieved over the next 150 years. The skeletal structure tower will act as a “meeting point” by day and be a dramatic “light monument” by night. The Q150 Monument will be a permanent tribute to Queensland’s sesquicentennial celebrations and will become a focal point of the 4ha of Public Open Space provided by the Masterplan, and be seen from all over Brisbane.

Today is a significant day in the life of Brisbane.

so where is Northbank in comparison to CBD?

In it! Between Victoria Bridge and QUT.

I can't get over how many negative replies this project is receiving in the couriermail.com.au blog section where you can comment about the story. One person goes on to say how they enjoy being able to see the river when they are driving on the Express Way and this project will ruin that!!! Might explain all the accidents.

I realise this is a big / technical job, but the time frame is just a killer... let's hope there are no delays...

I wonder what will be the final result after the final comunity feedback stage still to take place.

I must admit I like the pool idea...

I can live without it but it would have been cool / a little Japanese like to have at least one building with the Expressway going through it...

The entire development can't happen quicker, and I hope over time if anything, it gains better ideas rather than being downgraded with all the cool stuff cut...

Time will tell...

Well guys go leave your comments on the courier-mail site! We got a voice as well! There are plenty of us! Don't let the haters leave us with a view of a frickin freeway!!!

It will be fantastic!:) Do you see that statute light which is set to shine at night, and the huge stairs down to the river. It's brilliant.

^^ I have! I said shut up to them! :D

They are all just absolute morons... Ive uploaded the video.
nlSOSlCtpIw

Good work Soul!:)

Guys you can leave you support for the project at the Northbank site:

This is the e-mail address:
northbank@infrastructure.qld.gov.au

Very impressive and very slick. Love those steel 'vines' which wrap around the towers and facade treatment in general. At first I didn't notice those residential towers to the right.My only criticism would be the staggered heights of the residential towers which looks rather strange in context from South Bank I think they should be descending in height to the east not the west although the reason for it being the way it is is probably sun access so I guess it's understandable. Regardless I'm looking forward to seeing this one go up. What sort of timeframe are we looking at?

EDIT: just noticed in the video there's a midrise which links the two clusters together which is good because they seemed a bit detached from one another.

Starts next year I believe Archi.

http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/proposal/faq.shtm

Joint Statement:
Premier and Minister for Trade
The Honourable Peter Beattie

Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for Infrastructure
The Honourable Anna Bligh

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

QUEENSLANDERS – HAVE YOUR SAY ON NORTH BANK: BEATTIE

The State Government has called on Queenslanders to have their say on a proposal to revitalise riverfront land at North Bank in the Brisbane CBD.

Premier Beattie Beattie and Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure Anna Bligh today announced that Multiplex Developments Australia has been chosen as the preferred bidder for Stage 1 of the Queensland Government’s CBD riverfront revitalisation project North Bank

The North Bank project takes in riverfront land from the William Jolly Bridge to the Goodwill Bridge on the city side of the Brisbane River. Stage 1 is the stretch from Victoria Bridge to Alice Street.

“It was a Queensland Government’s requirement that the North Bank project be developed at no cost to Queensland taxpayers or not at all,” Mr Beattie said.

“Multiplex has offered a first-rate concept design as the basis for further negotiations with the Queensland Government,” Mr Beattie said.

“However, it is substantially different to the preferred strategic plan that was made public in 2004/05 as Multiplex has put forward a much larger development than originally envisaged.

“After testing the market it is clear that the redevelopment can only be achieved at no cost to taxpayers if significant high-rise development is included.

“This North Bank project, given it gets the final go ahead, could breath new life into a forgotten part of the city,” Mr Beattie said.

The project includes a new covered pedestrian walk (supported by the Victoria Bridge), public open spaces, public swimming pool, shops, restaurants, riverfront promenade, a new hotel, commercial and residential buildings, as well as a dramatic entry building from Queen Street to the new development, linking it directly to the heart of the CBD.

“More public spaces and greater pedestrian access are features, however we want the public to have a say.”

The Deputy Premier said the project had the potential to create a safe people place on the river that complements South Bank.

“Today’s announcement should not be seen as a Government endorsement of the Multiplex proposal – rather as an indication that the government wants to test its public acceptability.

“What we are seeking is the public’s view. Are they happy for a no-cost option if it includes some high-rise?” asked Ms Bligh

Mr Beattie said the government was building the modern Queensland.

“But it is important that our major projects are supported by the community and meet community expectations,” he said.

Ms Bligh said if there was public support for the project, Mulitplex intended to start construction next year and finish the development with in 10 years.

“We are inviting a month’s more public feedback on the proposal before a final decision is made.

“This period does not replace a full public consultation process, which will be conducted when the final design is being developed.

“A display – a model of the concept and drawings - is available for public viewing in the foyer of 100 George Street (Executive Building) for one month from today (Tuesday 13 February) or the public can visit the project website www.northbankbrisbane.com.au. People can contact freecall 1800 153 262 for further information.

“We are inviting people to have a say. The Courier Mail and ABC Local Radio and ABC On-Line are happy to host the debate and they welcome reader and listener input.

The multi-pronged process is to ensure as many people as possible get to have their say. The concept will also be presented to professional institutions for their comment.

Ms Bligh said the four-week public input period would help the government confirm or reject the project or determine if there is any room for improvement in the proposal.

“If it were to go ahead, the project would see Multiplex invest more than $1.5 billion and create up to 1220 jobs during construction over the next 10 years,” Ms Bligh said.

“Brisbane people love their city and Queenslanders love their capital - so it’s only fair and reasonable that they have a chance to have their say on the next major development planned for riverfront land in the CBD.”

Media inquiries: Premier’s office 3224 4500
Deputy Premier’s office: Steve Keating 3224 4379

..

OMG that is so amazing!!!!!! Please, if anyone important it listening: The reason this will work is because of the design, DO NOT cheapen it. Once again, excellent news!

This is big.. 10 years of development that will bring the 2 sides of the river together in great compliment

..

Don't worry Locke, I recorded both 10 and 7 news in HD... Uploading now... It may be some time because my Internet keeps crapping out! :ohno:

What's that big wide building behind the glass towers?

http://img243.imageshack.us/img243/9911/new2fr8.jpg

..

The project includes a new covered pedestrian walk (supported by the Victoria Bridge

how can victoria bridge support an additional structure like this when the council said last year it couldnt even support a covered shadcloth accross the pedestrian part of the bridge because of weight issues?

If this does go ahead (and that I'm not too sure of due to public reaction so far) does anyone really think Multiplex will have the Q150 monument built and accessible by June 6 2009?

how can victoria bridge support an additional structure like this when the council said last year it couldnt even support a covered shadcloth accross the pedestrian part of the bridge because of weight issues?

Looks like someone got their wires crossed somewhere. Here's what the development proposal states:

The People’s Bridge - Multiplex is offering to design, build and deliver a new pedestrian bridge linking Pedestrian Gateway to South Bank, adjacent to the Victoria Bridge.

If this does go ahead (and that I'm not too sure of due to public reaction so far) does anyone really think Multiplex will have the Q150 monument built and accessible by June 6 2009?

Yeah why not, well it's a good target for them, the whole thing doesn't have to be finished for 10 years, but the beacon will be a good starting point.

As for reaction, there are always some knockers but by the standards of late (ie Tunnels, Hale Street Bridge) it's a lot less. I think it will get approved.

*However*, it's important that ppl send their thoughts in to the Courier-mail and/or the North Bank web site, because the consultation period is to March 13. E-mail's are how the public can respond to the design. Obviously a positive email holds weight. The email address is: northbank@infrastructure.qld.gov.au so guys tell em what a good idea it is, because people have to speak up, alternative is nothing for the next ten years!

BTW on ABC news Campbell ****** said he loved it and wants it built, and the Property Council (who don't support every odd development) can't wait for construction to start.

so seeing the existing bldgs in background (scale model) does tallest bldg look 150m?

...it's OK - something a bit more iconic and out there would have been something more to get excited about.

^^ I don't think it quite looks as tall as 150m... considering the buildings are in the foreground, with the existing buildings in the background. Maybe 130m max. 111 George is missing the spire in the pictures here, and it's only 145m with the spire. Also, in the model that Peter Beattie and Anna Bligh are sitting behind, Brisbane Square looks far taller and is in the background.

I plead with all Queensland forumers to email

northbank@infrastructure.qld.gov.au

And just give your support for the project! Remember there is ONLY 1 MONTH of comm consultation so this could be more unpredictable than we actually think. Beattie said if the public doesn't give this the thumbs up, we could go back to the drawing board. Nimby's peak time to complain is certainly within the 1st month time frame of finding out.

I have emailed twice now.
One example...

"I would just like to thank Mr Beattie and Multiplex for creating a spectacular visionary project which will not only finally put Brisbane on the map, but also create a landmark for future generations. Finally this will eradicate that eyesore that we have had to put up with for decades. Please! I ask you to approve this amazing project! Brisbane will soon be the envy of Australia if not the world."

Even if its a bit over the top! I, and I would think most of you would just like to see this thing get over the line... whether that means writing airy fairy or over exaggerated emails we just want to see this get OVER THE LINE! :) Please... email.

this is my first glimpse!

UNBELIEVABLE. i cant believe how world class this development could be if it were actually built. brisbane would become the envy and leading example of the world. for us to transform the worst and most derilict part of our city into a world renowed destination is something truely astonishing. IM EXCITED

so seeing the existing bldgs in background (scale model) does tallest bldg look 150m?

If I can remember the news report correctly, the tallest building along the waterfront is 25 levels while the one behind is planned to be 26 levels, so they certainly wouldn't' reach 150m. The buildings actually look quite tall on the renders, but in reality they aren't.

My preliminary likes
- the entry building: nice, light and could be gallery space
- monument: interesting, and well positioned I think
- cafe, retail stuff spreading along the river: on south bank we have parkland (which is a great view) and finally we'll actually use the river in this sense
- office buildings: like the design, and the increasing density as the buildings move away from the treasury is probably appropriate
- resis: alright....not the best, but certainly not an embarrassment.

Dislikes
- strange hotel building behind, next to library....the top looks too bulky are too.....concrete. Stick with the glassy base, I think. And taller.....this is one of the sites where something significantly taller could be built.
- the lack of the William street site as part of this project. It should be

^^ Ten news said the tallest was a 37 story resi... i presume its the one at the end... Im uploading the news vid but its taking its time!

37 resi floors? so maybe 120m. this project will be great for the CBD.

I'm sorry for being the only negative person on this forum at the moment, but I much prefered the Lend Lease design. They built over the Freeway and didn't build out into the river anywhere near as much. I think it would be disasterous to reduce the width of our river by filling it in and building over it. Personally I think the whole idea that building over the top over the freeway is more expensive than building in the river is an absolute crock!

The bridge in the middle of the development was also a better part of the lendlease proposal as why put a bridge next to where there is already one?

The buildings look awesome and the way they are along side of the river is awesome, but they shouldn't be built on the river itself!

^^ wholeheartedly agree kj

i think it's an awesome looking development and the public space along the front looks great.. but i measured it up on google earth and it extends some 80m into the river from its bank and some 50m further into the river from the edge of the expressway. that's a pretty major development in the river. i don't think that's really appropriate.

Considering this was always going to extend into the river some amount that is fine IMO, and according to the CM it's only 40m anyway. And besides, where is it written you can't ever have anything protruding into it the river. It's a non-issue unless you are a duck who happens to swim around the expressway.

You know people can nitpick. But the harsh truth if this doesn't pass Northbank is dead for a long time, possibly for good. This is an all or nothing decision, quite literally. I had friends from overseas who saw this on the CM site and commented how wonderful it looked and that finally they were cleaning up this section of the town! So I really hope people are reasonable in their expectations, no private developer is going to pay 1.5 billion to build everyone a park over a freeway. They have done exceedingly well under the circumstances and that should be reflected.

^^ Ten news said the tallest was a 37 story resi... i presume its the one at the end... Im uploading the news vid but its taking its time!

Yep, I'd say your right - the CM (http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,23739,21219490-5003402,00.html) also has the 25 figure, but then the Australian mentions 37....I certainly trust the Australian more.

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^^ Looks nice.

What I don't get... Is all this talk about the "impact on historical buildings"... What impact exactly is that? Shadows??? Oh come on! Look at New York, where the historical buildings looks marvelous with contrasting modern buildings next to them. Any excuse to stop this development will be used! I won't let that happen!!

Also, i kind of screwed this up a bit... Its 177mbs! but its the best quality ever of the project. Ill see if i can fix it up.

(Right click, save link as)
Ten News - Northbank
LINK HERE (http://watelevision.com/site/upfiles/13_02_200717_00_TEN_News_At_Five_1.mpg)

according to the CM it's only 40m anyway

40m for the buildings and access roads, you've gotta add 10m onto that for the public walkway and marina facilities.. and it's already 30m or so out in the river due to the expressway. so 80m in total.

i agree that we can't have our cake and eat it too, but having a project that sticks out 80m into the river is pretty extreme..

and all in exchange for what new public infrastructure? from the infrastructure they are describing (http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/proposal/project_description.shtm) it looks like all it will be is a public promenade, pedestrian bridge to southbank and an olympic pool?? every other peice of infrastructure they are describing already exists in that precinct. yes, these ones will be nicer, but i personally dont beleive that is worth building structures that stick out 80m into the river... thoughts?

The expressway is already there, so any distance out should be counted from that, 80m if you subtract the expressway is very misleading. We should be looking at the change over the current set up. So in truth we get 50m on your calculations. However, I've read quite a few articles on this today and 40m is quoted everywhere as the furthest point out out. Unless we see plans to the contrary I'm inclined to go with 40m. In either case it is not an extreme intrusion either way, and whilst there is some intrusion it is within acceptable parameters.

Like you said you can't have your cake and eat it to. I mean I'd like the Burj Dubai on one end but that's just not realistic. Nor is it realistic to assume the developers will somehow build a lowrise development which is mostly parks that will cover the freeway and not intrude at all onto the river. I mean c'mon people, this is daydreaming.

Not a single developer offered to do that which should be a pretty good indicator that it is completely unfeasable. What they have proposed is the best outcome under the circumstances.

To suggest the current eyesore of freeway and 70's concrete is better is like saying you'd rather keep your beat up Datsun 120 when someone offers you a Mercedes SL for free, because what you really want is Ferrari Enzo - in other words, keep some perspective!

as indicated on the govt's northbank page here (http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/proposal/faq.shtm), the maximum distance out from the river for the development will be the first peir of the victoria bridge, which is approximately 50m from the edge of the riverside expressway. that edge of the expressway is roughly 30m from the riverbank.

anyway, the exact distance isnt that relevant, what matters is whether it is too much of the river or not.. im sure most would agree that if it was 80% of the river width then that'd be too much, but with this amount it all comes down to personal opinion.

my opinion is that given the public infrastructure that is being provided (a promenade, a footbridge and a pool) it is too much of the river. it dosnt represent taxpayer value. all up, the cost of comparable infrastructure (newfarm riverwalk, goodwill bridge, 50m pool) was ~$43m.. when you consider that approx. 7 buildings are planned for northbank and compare it to the $40m for the 480 queen site which will support just one building then that's very very cheap for what would be some of the best real estate in brisbane.

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How about 2 towers in the middle totaling the height of all the other combined?

Anyone been in to look at the display yet?
I think its in the foyer of a George St government building.

I agree with KJ here that the Lend Lease version looked a lot better. I don't like the idea of it being built over the river. Although, the images on this page and the possibility of less towers but with greater height, makes me like it a little more. I just hope they don't cut costs!!

It's interesting on ABC News Beattie said: "we have had a lot of people supportive of it, probably a few more than I thought, cos it's in my electorate as you may gather, but there have been people who have been critical as well".

That's promising I think, they said it would only get canned if there was overwhelming negativity and I think most ppl are level headed enough to see the benefits.

In terms of tower heights, Anna Bligh suggested by way of example that the shortest residential could for instance get stacked onto the tallest one (still a puny 30 something stories) in order to create more space if the need be. Sounds like a good idea. As the Gold Coast has shown us taller towers can work very well to free up more ground space.

I also agree with KJ, I don't like much about this proposal at all. The Lend Lease one was much better. And what is this Q150 crap??? Some monument? Who the hell cares about a stupid glass beacon with light shining thorugh it....woopdy doo! Only the glass buildings with the "vines" down the sides looks good. The boardwalk is too open and boring and way too far into the river. And the residential towers down the end look like nothing special and will probably turn out like another great Devine tower with concrete balconies everywhere.

What is wrong with the Q150? You do realise that is just a place holder for now, the monument hasn't been designed yet!

Anyway people go on about the lack of anything for tourists to snap photos of in Brisbane (I see them take photos of bloody bus stops out of boredom) so why not actually have some street art! I can't understand the opposition to have some street art. Why not take the balls out of Brisbane Square whilst we are at it and that hand from Eagle street?

As for it turning out Devinish, not a chance, it's a Cox Rayner design built by Multiplex who did quality buildings like Riparian.

It's interesting on ABC News Beattie said: "we have had a lot of people supportive of it, probably a few more than I thought, cos it's in my electorate as you may gather, but there have been people who have been critical as well".

That's promising I think, they said it would only get canned if there was overwhelming negativity and I think most ppl are level headed enough to see the benefits.

In terms of tower heights, Anna Bligh suggested by way of example that the shortest residential could for instance get stacked onto the tallest one (still a puny 30 something stories) in order to create more space if the need be. Sounds like a good idea. As the Gold Coast has shown us taller towers can work very well to free up more ground space.
Its also interesting that the state government is luke warm on this proposal.
Neither Beattie or Bligh like it......over half the cabinet have stated they don't like it....read between the political lines, this project is stillborn.

^
If no one in the government likes it, how exactly did it get selected over the Lend Lease one? Or over nothing at all....if neither were acceptable, they would have just opened the selection process again.

Its also interesting that the state government is luke warm on this proposal.
Neither Beattie or Bligh like it......over half the cabinet have stated they don't like it....read between the political lines, this project is stillborn.

Beattie liked it apart from the high-rise, Anna Bligh from what I've seen likes it and is the face of the project.

No surprises that most ministers have a tepid reaction to it, there is no political points to be gained from being pro development in a time when there is so many infastructure issues in the media, why let the CM have a field day?

What they need though is someone like Campbell N e w m a n to just come in and say 'right it's going ahead', cos asking the public's opinion on matters of architecture is ridiculous.

I'm sure public reaction was anticipated, most people are by nature adverse to change. Baring it being extreme it does not reflect on the project, any project can meet with such reaction potentially.

Anyway Lord Mayor likes it. Property Council like it. REIQ like it. I think Beattie is surprised the reaction hasn't been THAT bad. Based on that i think on balance it *may* get through. 50/50 atm.

Course maybe it won't, then all the haters, all those who are anti-everything and pro-nothing can wait five years for another study (and maybe another) and they can come back to you with a cut down 'on the cheap' version, much like what occurred with King George square. Nothing too controversial, sorta on the boring side, playing it safe... typical Brisbane.

So haters, here's a render of what's in store, revel in your vision, in what you have created:
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/165/373049919_458e4f35d8_o.jpg

^^ I don't think you can even see the historical buildings from southbank! The Treasury Casino yes, but you still see it with this proposal anyway!

I think to wait might be better if it means the development is done properly (and covers the expressway and maybe include some kind of integrated public transport).

To wait? do you know how long that may actually be? With our current infrastructure strains I can guarantee you that it would take at LEAST 20 years for the Queensland government to acquire and spend money on this project which is not even close to urgency... Water, roads, transport, health...etc etc are areas of desperate need of funding. Do people want to wait this long??? So as far as I'm concerned, I refuse to wait! This is the best its ever going to get.

Also, who's to say the expressway eventually couldn't be covered up in the near future?? Perhaps they could add another layer to the expressway and cover it up in the process?? anythings possible.
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All i'd like to say is at least we're having a decent debate over this here. The dribble that some people are writing in the Courier Mail blogs is absolutely disgusting and I am ashamed to be a city colleague of theirs. Some people are suggesting flooding?? GEeeeeeeeez

Anyway - i'm a huge supporter of this. At the moment, I cant enjoy the river on the north bank. With this plan I can. Its modern, not an eye sore, with plenty of public space. I hope the people of Brisbane support this. Like Beattie said, nothing is an option, but what a pile of crap we have to live with on that side of the river if we dont do anything.

I don't want to lose 40 metres of the Brisbane river for some more highrises. The river is unique, irreplaceable, and one of Brisbane's icons. But I'm sure if they don't build these highrises in our river, they will build them somewhere more suitable, as demand for offices and units has to be met one way or another. I would much rather have the highrises built in South Brisbane or Fortitude Valley or Milton.

Anyone been in to look at the display yet?
I think its in the foyer of a George St government building.

Yeah I've been down to have a look. It's in the Executive Building at 100 George St.

The model gives a good overview of the development that the TV or little movie they made doesn't show. It shows the good and the bad!

There are a couple of things I don't get:

Why don't the build the whole thing on like a big pier so that we aren't filling in the river. From my small understanding of fluid dynamics and physics, if you narrow the river, it causes flow rates to increase and therefore more erosion where the Captain Cook Bridge meets Kangaroo Point.

Why is the shortest building in the development in front of the Executive building (surely one of the ugliest in the CBD) and the tallest in front of Casino Towers and the neighbouring heritage building with another tall in front of 111 George (to me although plain these are some of the better buildings in the CBD).

The Riverside Expressway in 30 or 40 years is going to need to be rebuilt or replaced anyway. Why not do it now and replace it with a tunnel? Buy all the land next to the Riverside Expressway to use for building works (it would be cheap with the expressway there and expensive afterwards) and then either sell them off afterwards or redevelop them at a big profit to pay for the works. Replace the Riverside area with a Southbank style park, just a little more modern and better designed with thicker vegetation in areas and a massive cafe culture all in the one area.

To me there is no doubt that if the Multiplex design is built that it would be amazingly popular and it would bring that side of the city to life in a way Brisbane has never seen.I just don't think it would be the BEST development for Brisbane. That is my biggest argument.

KJ who is going to pay for a tunnel that replaces the expressway now, especially when the expressway still works fine, and the traffic disruptions would be of epic proportions.

On flooding:

Ms Bligh said concerns about the use of the river site had been taken into account.

"We have had advice that this encroachment into the river would not disrupt any navigational boat or shipping issue," she said, "and the engineering has taken into account all of the likely flood impacts."

Interesting development (could turn out good or we could lose a major tallie site):

If the high rises were rejected, Mr Beattie said he might have to convince the developer to build further back from the river by giving up a valuable piece of state-owned land nearby which had been earmarked for a new executive building.

Or alternatively:
"The other option is we abandon the project altogether."

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I didn't mention anything about flooding, and I also explained how the tunnel money could be achieved. The tunnel could also be built while the expressway is in operation, and after it is finished the traffic is then moved into the tunnel. Seriously the length of this tunnel is miniscule compared to the length of say the NSBT. The cost of the tunnel shouldn't exceed $1 billion. If the government bought up all the land along the Riverside Expressway and the developed it as part of the project, I would reckon they could make up that $1 billion easily. Remember that the value of the land is significantly hampered by the Expressway.

Plus I utter hate the building they have next to the executive building. Looks like they're trying to mimick 70's architecture!!

Yeah I'm not a fan of that building either, but this is just a concept I doubt it would get through approvals like that.

I wouldn't get too hung up on the towers because by the sounds of it they will move about a bit. The glass ones are uber cool though so I hope they stay as is.

Anyway 1 billion for another tunnel when everyone is crying foul about the current ones? See this is the problem when you live in a society where people bitch and whine about everything, even if you could do it, you can't.

Where are the pics of the Lend Lease proposal...They've all dissapeared.

I'm not a fan of Multiplex, they have a habbit of not taking care with the finishing touches (Portside rings a bell - Multiplex Living), and the painted concrete on the upper facade of Riparian, haha, really....

Why don't the build the whole thing on like a big pier so that we aren't filling in the river.

Looks like they are building on piers

http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/library/images/stage1/nb_designs_01.jpg

More pictures here (http://www.coordinatorgeneral.qld.gov.au/north_bank/proposal/images.shtm). Looks to me like the Treasury will still be visible from Soutbank, as there are no high rises directly in front, only the entry plaza.

You guys will think I'm loony, but my favourite building proposed is the big wide "hotel-like" building. I think it looks quite Japanese.

In the Courier today it said that 6 ministers supported the proposal, 6 didn't support the proposal, and 6 were unsure.

Will be interesting to see what happens.

ahahaha 6,6,6 thats great

ok ive got some construction background from a few years back so im gonna speel out the 'building over the freeway' nonsense.

the freeway at its widest point along the development is 6 lanes with associated on/off ramps. the gap in between the freeway bridges is quite narrow or non existant in other places. also, there are on and off ramps flying all over the shop.

ok. firstly, design a transfer beam that will span 3-4 lanes and find space for a structural column large enough to support it in between the bridges if possible. no. cant do it?

ok then, design a transfer beam that will span up to 8 lanes across and build columns large enough to support it in the river. thats a shitload of concrete, steel and stressing cable. secondly, design the beams high enough so that they cater for traffic on the fly overs. your first floor wont be until your 5 stories in the air.

i understand why they have opted to skip the freeway. i reckon it will look awesome driving through open air space on the capt cook bridge and then emerging into a canyon of glassy scrapers.

What happens when we need to widen the freeway to 4 or more lanes north and south ?

What happens when we need to widen the freeway to 4 or more lanes north and south ?

Build up? Or tunnel under?...

^^ Double Decker highways... There's quite a few of them around.

I think this project needs something of attraction within its own right - not just relying on what a development company thinks is good architecture which brings the crowds. OK - there is the swimming pool; but I think something more serious is needed than a swimming pool. Doesn't have to be an Opera House a la Sydney....but something. I know its hard because southbank has most of those things already - but im sure there would be something they could put here.

^^ I guess again, it all comes down to cost... As it is now, I believe multiplex is being extremely generous with a lot of things. Don't push your luck otherwise we will be waiting for decades to have the money to spend it!

I seriously doubt the riverside expressway will ever be expanded. More tunnels will be built to bypass it instead in the future.

As for having a big attraction on the site?? I really think that would create more criticism. Big open public spaces is what the people of Brisbane want, to maintain our outdoors lifestyle. I think this plan delivers that so well. I can ee so many people having lunch down there when this is finished. I work in State Law, and there is no easy access to the river from there without getting run over by a push bike or just staring at freeway pylons

^^^^ Create more criticism??? .....what the?? in what way? People of Brisbane love cultural attractions whether small or large. A clear indicator is South Bank - if brisbane didn't like it (the big attractions); it wouldnt have been built.

Ok, for everyone saying "Replace the riverside Expressway with a tunnel," do you guys realise that this is pretty much impossible. First of all, the tunnel would need to be very deep to get under the river, secondly, a tunnel couldn't have as many on and off ramps as the riverside expressway. Seriously, if they tried to climb from a tunnel up to Elizabeth Street, you'd probably end up around the Albert street intersection(i'd say that's a conservative estimate too).

And oh yeah, are you guys forgetting that the Riverside expressway is half built OVER THE WATER!!! Pretty sure you can't tunnel THROUGH water.

If the amended plan couples a few of these buildings on top one another, it should allow for more public space around them. That and a slight change to the pedestrian gateway to allow better views of the Casino would make this a real hit, and would still make for an impressive drive down the expressway!

The only major item I miss from the other bid is the location and style of the footbridge, though I do like the idea of the Multiplex footbridge joining to the remains of the Tram bridge on the Southbank side.

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^^ I guess again, it all comes down to cost... As it is now, I believe multiplex is being extremely generous with a lot of things.

yes, but what you know could be written on a very small page with a very big pen.

if you actually add up the cost of providing the public infrastructure that multiplex is proposing in exchange for the development rights you'll find the value they are placing on the site is very small.... which really, is the whole crux of the argument - they're not giving the public very much for taking away a whole heap of the river!

Alchemy, for reasons of cost or whatever there was no bidder who has expressed a desire to provide the kind of Northbank that meets all your criteria. This is the winning of six applicants. We can talk wishful hypotheticals all day but the reality is you need to compromise somewhere, and this is an excellent outcome under those circumstances.

For my money, I don't even care they didn't build over the freeway. I think with Northbank on one side and the city on the other it could be quite an impressive entrance to Brisbane, certainly more so than a dank tunnel.

which really, is the whole crux of the argument - they're not giving the public very much for taking away a whole heap of the river!

^^ 40m Isn't heaps! Northbank will not affect the transport and other water vehicles on the water. It really depends on how you look at this... At the moment, I see that part of the river as a runned down, muddy brown eyesore with ugly mangroves that only started growing after the expressway was built.

Great article locke! Where did you get it from? i can't seem to find it in the CM site?? I completely agree with Mr Walker about how some projects just shouldn't have public consultation. Finally... Brisbane gets a monument! Whether its small or not I hope it does its job by attracting people.

Alchemy, for reasons of cost or whatever there was no bidder who has expressed a desire to provide the kind of Northbank that meets all your criteria. This is the winning of six applicants. We can talk wishful hypotheticals all day but the reality is you need to compromise somewhere, and this is an excellent outcome under those circumstances.

Locke do you know this as a fact or is it your opinion? I have not seen any details of the other six proposals which leads to the issue of why aren't the public given the choice of what proposal they wish to have. If you have seen details of these other proposal I'm sure this board would like you to post them to have a look at.

The smartest comment I've heard about this proposal is whatever option is chosen will have to be lived with realistically our whole life time. There is only going to be one chance to do this and therefore it should be done properly. We should not be forced to accept a proposal which people aren't entirely satisfied with.

^ perhaps, but It has been stated that you realistically cannot build over the expressway for financial AND practical reasons, and theres no way that we can knock the expressway down.

How, under those circumstances, could this proposal possibly be improved (In a master planning sense, not small features)

It has been stated that you realistically cannot build over the expressway for financial AND practical reasons, and theres no way that we can knock the expressway down.

it has been stated by who?

the lend lease plan that we saw renders of a few weeks ago had buildings over the expressway.. why was it not selected?

This actually reminds me of what Sydney are doing with Barangaroo Bay, only difference is that their land was reclaimed decades ago.

the lend lease plan that we saw renders of a few weeks ago had buildings over the expressway.. why was it not selected?

Really? I remember the expressway still being exposed... They just did a good job of concealing it with angles of the renders they chose. But I thought that proposal was still located in front of the expressway. Lets remember that we have only assumed that that was the Lend Lease proposal, it has never been officially stated as such. In fact it could have been an earlier design from one of the other 4 bidders.

Yeah I don't recall seeing any definate evidence that the other proposal built over the expressway. I think a lot of people just assumed this to be the case. Maroon Grown has stated the obvious reasons why it isn't economical to build over the freeway.

it has been stated by who?

Premier Beattie and Anna Bligh or starters.

Do you really think that if there was an option to cover it all up that met all the required criteria that they wouldn't have just gone with that one? Why do you think we are having this public consultation process? (ridiculous as it is). There is no great mystery here and simple logic can lead you to the answer.

Deejayt - Yes we will have to live with it, and I'm looking forward to living with it immensely, it's pretty damn good.

^^ Well said.

I have just looked at the lend lease proposal... and from what I could tell, there is no tunnel! Anyway I'm glad there's no tunnel... its going to be so cool driving through it! If they could add something like those metal things on Melbourne's Citylink... I would be happy with just that.
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i16/soulvisionQ1/0538846900.jpg

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i16/soulvisionQ1/1_citylink31k.jpg

Also, Just look at the very original sketches and designs of Northbank... There is nothing that has the buildings on top of the expressway...
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i16/soulvisionQ1/area_e3-1.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i16/soulvisionQ1/01_full.jpg