Grand old hotel at risk from shocking neglect

The Broadway Hotel is in worse shape than ever in its 140-year history, with thousands of litres of water flooding the basement.

The landmark Broadway Hotel in Woolloongabba is in worse shape than ever in its 140-year history, with thousands of litres of water flooding the basement.

The roofless, graffitied, burnt-out wreck, gutted in a fire in September, is unprotected from the elements.

Councillor Jonathan Sri (The Gabba) said despite several enforcement notices being issued, nothing had been done to seal the hotel.

He said it was now time to enforce those notices.

“I’m concerned the State Government is not acting quickly enough,’’ he said.

“There’s now no protection from stormwater or rainwater damage.

“We understand there are thousands of litres of water in the basement. I’m told this represents a significant risk to its structural integrity.’’

The remains of the Broadway Hotel. Picture: Annette Dew

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Lifestyle and Community Services chair, Peter Matic, said Council was also concerned the hotel’s heritage was not being “appropriately preserved’’ following the fire.

“A number of enforcement notices have been issued to the property owner (local doctor Malcolm Nyst), as well as a show cause notice on November 12, due to the hotel’s dilapidated condition,’’ Cr Matic said.

“It is crucial the State Government exercise their powers under the Heritage Act to ensure it does not fall into further disrepair.”

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But Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said Cr Sri should “stop playing politics and take the issue up with the Lord Mayor and his colleagues in the council’’.

“I issued a pre-emptive stop order to prevent the potential demolition of the hotel,’’ Ms Enoch said.

The most recent fire at the Broadway Hotel.

“The council has powers under Section 248 of the Building Act 1975 to issue further enforcement notices for the structural stability of the building to prevent further deterioration.

“BCC only acted after pressure from the Government to issue an enforcement notice to address public safety around the building.

“Without further enforcement action by Council the Broadway Hotel is at risk, particularly as the storm season approaches.”