Queenslanders given sneak peek of Cross River Rail with new replica

A new facility shows exactly what Cross River Rail underground stations will look like, with the design a nod to the classic Queenslander building.

A replica facility in Brisbane has given Queenslanders a sneak peek at the new underground stations currently being built for the Cross River Rail.

The state government has assisted in building a mock-up facility in a warehouse in Eagle Farm, to show an exact replica of the station currently being built 20m below ground in Roma St.

The ceiling of the underground stations feature expressed ‘rafters’ and panel joints in a nod to the classic Queenslander veranda. Picture: Supplied

Transport Minister Mark Bailey said the facility gave Queenslanders a “sneak peek” of what the stations would eventually look like when the project is completed in three years.

“They’ll look quite different to other stations on the network. Well lit (and) we’ve worked very hard with disability groups and advocates to make sure it’s friendly for people with visual and physical impairments,” he said.

A render for the station’s interior. Picture: Supplied

While the replica represented what the Roma St underground station will eventually look like, Mr Bailey said the four stations would have similar layouts.

“The underground stations’ buildings, ground levels and colour palettes will be different (but) their mezzanine and platform levels’ layout will be consistent, clear and simple, making the stations easy for all passengers to use,” he said.

Mr Bailey said the replica facility would be used to understand how the materials work together at each station.

“The ceiling design is a nod to the classic Queenslander veranda, and features expressed ‘rafters’ and panel joints rather than the curved profile used by most underground stations across the world,” he said.