Brisbane City Council reveals final vision of new Victoria Park project

The final vision to turn Victoria Park golf course into Brisbane’s own Central Park has been unveiled by council after months of consultation. SEE THE DESIGNS

Brisbane’s biggest park project in half-a-century will see Victoria Park remodelled into a sprawling green sanctuary with council revealing its final, revised vision of the project today after months of public consultation.

The Sunday Mail can reveal Brisbane City Council’s final vision for the 45ha, $83-million project that will see the 18-hole Golf Course transformed into a scenic inner city parkland inspired by international icons such as Central Park in New York City and Hyde Park in London.

A concept design of the remodelled Victoria Park. Picture: Supplied

Exclusive concept images of the “once-in-a-generation” project show a canopy walk stretching over a sprawling green fields, where a newly formed natural water feature, Lake Barrambin, lies.

Scenic cycle routes, a nature and water play gully, a canopy walk, a high ropes course and multiple dog off-leash areas also form part of the revised vision.

The finalised concept comes in response to more than 5400 ideas and feedback from more than 2000 people – which called for a greener more accessible parkland.

“The community wanted to see more trees and we listened, with the vision setting out even more opportunities to increase the tree canopy, shade and natural bushland from 10 per cent to 60 per cent,” Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said.

The project will include a new water feature, Lake Barrambin. Picture: Supplied

“They wanted a park that speaks to its original landscapes and people and we’re continuing to work with Traditional Custodian groups to determine appropriate design features that acknowledge the park’s history and celebrates our future, in the outdoors.

“Opportunities for everyone to get around the park have also been enhanced, with a more accessible bridge, canopy walk and on-ground pathways.”

Council will also prepare a dedicated transport strategy for the parkland integrating it with Brisbane’s future transport projects – such as the Cross River Rail.

A concept design of the remodelled Victoria Park. Picture: Supplied

Construction of the new Victoria Park – touted by Mr Schrinner as one of the biggest and most exciting projects in decades – will begin in June 2021, when the golf course officially closes.

Council’s Environment, Parks and Sustainability Chair Fiona Cunningham said Victoria Park would then open as a public parkland, with the popular putt putt course, driving range and function centre set to remain.

“Our first priority is opening up more of Victoria Park to visitors so they can enjoy the green space while the exciting elements of the vision come together and we revegetate the former golf course,” Cr Schrinner said.

A concept design of the remodelled Victoria Park. Picture: Supplied

Ms Cunningham said council would continue to consider public feedback about the project moved forward.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine a significant green space, so we’ll continue to work with residents and seek public feedback to make sure we get it right.”

Originally published as Brisbane City Council reveals final vision of new Victoria Park project