South Bank’s iconic Streets Beach and intersecting stream has become one of the first areas upgraded as part of public works that are taking shape across the city in the lead up to the G20.

The $1.71 million project forms part of the public works that are taking shape across the city in the lead up to the G20.

The lifestyle and cultural destination features 17 hectares of parkland, the beach and surrounding stream, with recreational areas critical to the reinvigoration of the precinct. 

Tasked with the stream upgrade, planning and design firm Place Design Group have spent the last eight months working on the design and construction of the stream and surrounding recreational facilities. 

Concept plan pictured below

An emphasis on stream water quality and improving accessibility were the key criteria. 

Stairs that lead directly into the streams and extra attention to shaded areas to capitalise on the precinct’s open air ambience were incorporated into the designs.

Brisbane Lord Mayor Graham Quirk officially reopened the Streets Beach and intersecting stream project.

A statement from the designers explained the stream edges were opened up by increasing turf areas that adjoin the stream. The existing boulders were all removed, repositioned and in-filled with concrete mortar to enable a safer and more inviting entrance to the stream.

Stairs were also built at key points along the stream to encourage people into and through the water. Locating play items and signage at these stair locations also offered a purpose to enter the water.

Tony Mitchell, Place Design Group Landscape Architect commented:

“The motivation behind the South Bank refresh is one that aims to focus on leisure visitors; enhancing their overall experience at the precinct. With this in mind we focussed on improving the quality of existing facets of stream whilst ensuring that new aspects would meet the growing needs of visitors.”

The designers said projects such as this are vital to economic growth of Brisbane.  The Brunswick Street Mall in Fortitude Valley and Toowoomba’s Ruthven St Laneway, other projects under PLACE Design Group’s watch, aim to incorporate place-making aspects to create and balance activity.

The government investment of such projects has and continues to act as a catalyst to unlock wider development in targeted areas, resulting in further growth for Brisbane and the region.