Proposed tower to put Breakfast Creek arvo sessions in the shade

Drinkers who enjoy a quiet off-the-wood XXXX in the afternoon sun will find themselves in the shade for several months a year if plans for a 17-storey residential tower next to the famous Breakfast Creek Hotel are approved.

Proposed for a flood-prone site to the immediate west of the hotel, the 199-unit development would rise almost 64 metres above the heritage-listed hotel, which was built in 1889.

DRJ Investments has submitted plans for a 17-storey residential development next to Brisbane’s famous Breakfast Creek Hotel.Credit: Jackson Teece

DRJ Investments’ plans exceed the Albion neighbourhood plan’s height limit by seven storeys.

Comment has been sought from the Breakfast Creek Hotel.

In an assessment report submitted to Brisbane City Council on DRJ’s behalf, town planning firm Place Design Group says: “[T]here are several developments in proximity to the site which have exceeded the maximum building height in the City Plan.”

The Breakfast Creek Hotel could soon have an overbearing neighbour.Credit: Matt Dennien

“Based on this, it is reasonable to conclude, where appropriate, the building height can be exceeded and is a representation of the community’s appetite to expect this can and will occur,” Place says.

Place says the development’s podium levels would contribute to the area’s character, with cafes and restaurants planned on the Breakfast Creek frontage.

The 10-metre buffer to the hotel was “considered more than reasonable” to maintain the pub’s amenity, Place argues.

Included in the development would be the creation of Higgs Street Plaza, which Place says will “build a sense of place” for the community.

“Cities with vibrant public spaces are more liveable and attractive for residents and visitors alike,” Place says.

“The plaza will also offer opportunities for social connection, casual surveillance and urban sustainability.”

The proposed Higgs Street Plaza. The Breakfast Creek Hotel is to the left.Credit: Jackson Teece

Of the 199 units, there would be 117 two-bedroom apartments, 16 with three bedrooms 45 with just the one.

In addition, there would be 21 two-level “SOHO” units – small office/home office – 18 of which would have three bedrooms, with the other three having two.

If approved and built, the development would include basement parking for 247 cars over five levels. There would be 234 bicycle parking stations.

Because the plans did not meet the council criteria for the site, they were considered “impact assessable” and open to public submissions both for and against the proposal.