What’s happening?
The plans for the Woolloongabba PDA have changed a few times over the years. The latest iteration of them came out in 2023 in response to the government’s plan to demolish and rebuild the Gabba Stadium for the Olympics. The new plans involved a vastly expanded area for the PDA, taking in a whopping 106 hectares of Woolloongabba and East Brisbane – you can see the map of the extended PDA area and read more about the PDA process here. At the time of writing, the Labor state government hasn’t given us any updates on whether these plans will change now the $2.7 billion Gabba rebuild has been scrapped.
What could we have at the Gabba station precinct?
At the huge Gabba Station site, we could fit hundreds of beautiful, medium-density social homes, to house all kinds of families. Residents would be able to quickly head down to a great new train station, reducing the need for car parks and cars. The ground floor could include a child care centre, public library, a free bookable community hall and a green grocer. All next door to a new public pool and a beautiful new public park, at least as big as Raymond Park, with seating, shade, and playgrounds.
Importantly, the site would stay in public hands, for public benefit. Rent from homes and shops would come back to the government, to re-invest in maintenance, new facilities, and services.
How do we fight for a community vision for this site?
We know that without sustained community pressure, the government will likely privatise these sites. I’m calling for the state government to ensure that public land stays in public hands, and to implement a community vision for both sites, that includes in-depth community consultation. To win this, we’re going to need to come together as a community and fight for these sites.
We’d love you to be a part of our growing community campaign – sign up on this page for events and updates.
