One of Brisbane’s major tourism and hospitality developments has moved a step closer to reality, with Brisbane City Council approving the $500 million expansion of the Howard Smith Wharves precinct beneath the Story Bridge.
The approval clears the way for the next phase of development at the riverside destination, which has become a popular dining, entertainment and event precincts since opening in 2018.
Known as Howard Smith Wharves 2.0, the project will significantly expand the site’s tourism, accommodation and events offering ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The redevelopment will include a new 106-room boutique hotel, expanded public spaces, additional food and beverage venues, a rooftop pool and restaurant, enhanced river access and an upgraded entertainment precinct.
Among the most eye-catching features is Brisbane’s first over-river swimming pool, which will extend out above the Brisbane River and provide uninterrupted views of the Story Bridge and city skyline.
The project will also deliver a substantial expansion of the precinct’s events and entertainment capabilities. Felons Barrel Hall will be enlarged and enhanced as a live music and events venue, while upgrades to the Rivershed and surrounding spaces are expected to increase the precinct’s capacity to host corporate functions, conferences, incentive groups and major public events.
The development will increase public access to the riverfront, with plans including new river terraces, landscaped areas, improved pontoons and additional cliffside lifts connecting the CBD to the waterfront. The project is expected to create approximately 8,500 square metres of additional public space.
Howard Smith Wharves founder and Artemus Group chief executive Adam Flaskas said the approval represented a major milestone for Brisbane and its future as a global destination.
“Howard Smith Wharves 2.0 is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to further connect Brisbane with its river and create an iconic destination for locals and visitors alike,” Flaskas said.
He said the redevelopment would build on the success of the original precinct while helping position Brisbane for increased international visitation in the lead-up to 2032.
The approval follows several years of planning and design work and comes as Brisbane continues to invest heavily in tourism and events infrastructure ahead of the Olympic Games.
Construction is expected to be staged to minimise disruption to existing businesses and venues operating within the precinct. While timelines are yet to be finalised, parts of the expanded development are expected to open progressively from 2027.