Brisbane quarries to be transformed into public spaces under City Council plan

The transformation of two major Brisbane eyesores – both twice the size of the South Bank parklands – into potential world-class tourism destinations is one step closer, and now you have a chance to say what happens to them

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner is inviting Brisbane residents to help shape the transformation of two Council-owned quarries as part of a long-term vision announced in the 2023-24 Budget.

The transformation of two major Brisbane quarries into potential world-class tourism destinations is one step closer, with Brisbane City Council officially launching community consultation on the projects.

The Mt Coot-tha and Pine Mountain quarries are twice the size of the South Bank parklands, and Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner says the sites have the potential to be transformed into major assets as they near the end of their use.

“Just like the desolate industrial precinct on the banks of the Brisbane River was transformed into South Bank after Expo ’88, these two quarries present similar opportunities,” he said.

“While there’s still an important role for both quarries right now, there is enormous potential to transform them into world-class tourism, environmental and recreational destinations in the future.”

Brisbane City Council is looking to redevelop two quarries, one being Mt Coot-tha and the other is Pine Mountain and are looking for ideas like The Eden Project UK

In June the council announced a $500,000 investment to explore how the sites could be revitalised, with the goal of having them open prior to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

While the Pine Mountain quarry has been used as a recycling facility for the past decade, the Mt Coot-tha quarry has been in use for more than 100 years and produces asphalt used on the city’s roads.

Mr Schrinner cited the United Kingdom’s Eden Project and Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay as examples of what Mt Coot-tha could become and said community consultation would be open from today until June next year.

Brisbane City Council is looking to redevelop two quarries, one being Mt Coot-tha and the other is Pine Mountain and are looking for ideas like Gardens by the Bay Singapore

“The transformation of these quarries is going to be a big part of Brisbane’s future and I am hopeful that in the future all three levels of government can work together to deliver our vision for them,” he said. “I’m genuinely excited our community will be able to help shape the future of our quarries and we want everyone to have their say to help us make Brisbane even better.”

Paddington Ward councillor Clare Jenkinson said the transformation of the quarry site at Mt Coot-tha would make the popular spot an even more desirable location for future generations.

“Local residents love Mt Coot-tha and they’re incredibly excited about this opportunity to transform it into a world-class destination,” she said. “I can’t wait to work with the local community to help make Mt Coot-tha even better.”

Originally published as Brisbane quarries to be transformed into public spaces under City Council plan