Howard Smith Wharves seeks changes to ensure survival after COVID-19
The operators of Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves are seeking changes to some businesses to secure the ‘ongoing viability’ of the precinct, with its boss admitting it’s been hit hard by COVID-19 restrictions.
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HOWARD Smith Wharves has submitted a hail-mary development application to turn its two function centres into bars and restaurants, claiming the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the “ongoing viability” of the precinct.
The riverfront venue has asked Brisbane City Council for planning permission for Howard‘s Hall and the Rivershed to be used in a “flexible manner” amid a collapse in event bookings.
Currently, both spaces only have approval to be used for functions, but Howard Smith Wharves wants the two halls to be also used part-time as a “food and drink outlet or hotel.”
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“Amid the COVID-19 crisis, the majority of booked events have been cancelled due to the economic crisis,” the Howard Smith Wharves development application said.
“Long term it is expected the number of events to be held at these venues will significantly decrease, and therefore will have an adverse impact on the ongoing viability of HSW.”
The application also proposes changes to walkways associated with the construction of a new ferry terminal at the precinct.
“This proposal seeks to allow these buildings to be used in a flexible manner either as a Function Facility (as currently approved), Food and Drink Outlet or Hotel.”
It’s not the first time the precinct has been impacted by COVID-19. Prominent restaurant ARC Dining closed permanently earlier this year amid the growing impact of the pandemic.
Howard Smith Wharves chief executive Luke Fraser said the application was a practical business decision amid unprecedented times.
“We’re still holding and taking bookings for events where it is possible under government restrictions, but like so many businesses that have been decimated by COVID we are having to adapt and pivot to the new landscape,” Mr Fraser said.
QUT Business retail expert Dr Gary Mortimer said the new application suggested more “permanent food and beverage offers.”
“Prior to COVID-19, having facilities that were able to host conferences and weddings and other functions was possibly a viable business model,” Dr Mortimer said.
“If you’ve got capital tied up in these function centres or these facilities, and they’re being used less frequently now because of COVID-19, then there’s no viable return on that investment.”