Brisbane 2032 Olympics Archives - Fortitude Valley News

Plans to Revitalise Fortitude Valley Take Shape Ahead of Brisbane 2032

Fortitude Valley is the subject of a new long-term precinct plan that aims to boost housing, improve public spaces, strengthen transport connections and grow the local economy before the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, while protecting the suburb’s existing heritage and character.

Read: Prime Fortitude Valley Development Site Hits Market With 40-Storey Potential Near Olympic Precinct

The Fortitude Valley Sustainable Growth Precinct Plan, developed by Brisbane with input from state officials, will be adopted into Brisbane City Plan 2014 to guide and assess development across the precinct.

The first round of community consultation ran from December 2025 through to 15 February 2026, inviting residents and stakeholders to share their ideas for revitalising the precinct. That feedback, alongside technical investigations and input from state officials, will be used to shape the draft plan. Residents who missed the first round can still view ideas submitted during the engagement period via the Your City Your Say interactive mapping platform.

What the plan covers

According to Brisbane’s local officials, the plan will aim to:

facilitate housing choice and diversity
improve connections to places and destinations
leverage opportunities in the lead up to Brisbane 2032 and beyond
enhance cultural and creative experiences
support Fortitude Valley’s rich character and heritage
support vibrant streets, laneways and public spaces
boost the 24/7 economy
create thriving precincts and mixed-use communities.

What residents raised

Among the feedback gathered during the initial consultation period, cycling infrastructure and laneway connectivity featured as notable concerns.

One resident raised concerns about northbound cycling access from Brunswick Street, noting the absence of a safe and comfortable route for cyclists continuing north. The resident indicated that while Wickham Street serves as an alternative, it is neither safe nor comfortable for cyclists or for pedestrians sharing the footpath.

McLachlan Lane was flagged by some respondents. One resident called for the lane to be reactivated and for improved connectivity to Ivory Street Park. A separate submission described walkability in the McLachlan Lane vicinity as poor, citing limited shade, high motor vehicle traffic and proximity to an emergency services station. The same respondent noted that connections to the Howard Smith Wharves precinct could be improved.

Cycling group proposes Valley bikeway

The cycling advocacy group Brisbane CBD BUG (Bicycle User Group) has put forward a proposal for a physically separated bi-directional bikeway through Fortitude Valley, connecting the Breakfast Creek pedestrian and cyclist bridge in Newstead with the CityLink Cycleway on Elizabeth Street. The group has identified two possible corridors — Wickham Street, which it considers the preferred route due to its less steep gradient, or Ann Street as an alternative.

The group argues the infrastructure would have direct economic benefits for the precinct. “We know that bike lanes boost business and it is hard to think of a more sustainable way to grow a precinct than with people riding in, out and through it,” the group posted on Facebook.

Brisbane CBD BUG also pointed to safety concerns as a key driver of the proposal. “Currently the Valley is very much a no go zone for many people on bikes as they fear for their safety, due to the hostile road environment. It is time this changed for the better!”

The proposal received support in the comments, with some respondents noting it would be an opportunity to better connect Brisbane’s high-density districts by bike. However, not all were in agreement on priorities, with one commenter expressing a preference for dedicated bus lanes along the full length of Ann and Wickham streets before bikeway investment, while also acknowledging the need for improved cross-valley cycling access, suggesting the southern side of Gipps Street as a potential route to the Story Bridge.

Read: Behind Queensland’s Growth: The Infrastructure Race to Keep the Lights On

What comes next

A draft precinct plan is expected to be released for a further round of public consultation in late 2026, at which point local officials will also engage with businesses and state officials on the draft plan.

Feedback from that round will be reviewed and incorporated before the plan is finalised. Approval from both local and state officials is expected in 2027, after which the plan will be formally gazetted into Brisbane City Plan 2014.

Published 20-February-2026

Spring Hill Apartment Project Aligns with 2032 Olympic Precinct

A new apartment development in Spring Hill is integrating emerging lifestyle features and proximity to Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic venues into its design.

Residential Design Aligns with Olympic Infrastructure

A 15-storey residential development is taking shape in Spring Hill, offering future residents direct access to Brisbane’s Olympic precinct. Situated on Gregory Terrace, the site overlooks the future Olympic Stadium and Victoria Park/Barrambin, positioning the project within walking distance of key venues for the 2032 Games.

The project, named Oria, is being developed by Keylin and constructed by Brisbane-based builder CoStruct. It will deliver 132 apartments across two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom configurations, with completion forecast for early 2027.

Oria Spring Hill — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Integration of Pickleball Reflects Sporting Trends

Oria is believed to be the first multi-storey inner-city residential development in Queensland to incorporate a dedicated pickleball court among its amenities. Pickleball, which has rapidly gained popularity across Queensland in recent years, is under consideration for inclusion in the 2032 Olympic program.

According to the Pickleball Association of Queensland, demand for courts across the state has outpaced availability. The compact court dimensions make the sport suitable for integration into high-density residential developments. The inclusion of a pickleball court at Oria complements other rooftop amenities. These include a gym, pool, yoga space, cinema, sauna, steam room, games area, and private dining rooms.

Oria pickleball court Spring Hill — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Focus on Community and Sustainability

In addition to its sport-focused facilities, Oria will include ground-level features like a business centre and off-leash dog area, aiming to support diverse lifestyles and foster community interaction.

The development has received a six-leaf certification from the Urban Development Institute of Australia under the EnviroDevelopment program, recognising sustainability measures in energy, water, waste, ecosystems, materials, and community initiatives.

Spring Hill apartment development — *Photo Credit: Supplied*

Urban Outlook and Future Integration

Oria is in Spring Hill, next to the 64-hectare Victoria Park/Barrambin, which is being redeveloped as part of preparations for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Its elevated site provides 360-degree views from Mt Coot-tha to Brisbane’s CBD and stadium zone.

With the Olympic stadium and aquatics centre being constructed nearby, developments like Oria are seen as part of the broader urban response to Brisbane’s upcoming international event. Sales for the apartments are expected to launch later in 2025.

What’s Next

As construction continues, Oria remains one of the first residential developments in Brisbane’s inner north to include pickleball among its amenities and to be located within close proximity to the planned Olympic venues. Its design features align with increasing interest in lifestyle-oriented infrastructure within high-density urban precincts.

Published 28-May-2025

New National Aquatic Centre Planned for Spring Hill With Major Facility Upgrades

Photo Credit: Archipelago

The planned new aquatic centre in Spring Hill will feature three new pools and two new diving towers, setting a new benchmark for aquatic sports infrastructure in Australia as preparations continue for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A major aquatic facility is set to be developed at the current Centenary Pool site in Spring Hill as part of Brisbane’s Olympic legacy. This project aims to serve both elite athletes and the broader community, offering a world-class training and competition venue.

Two large indoor stadiums will be built, each equipped with pools designed for elite training and high-level competitions. The centre will also include modern amenities to support both athletes and community users.

During the 2032 Games, the venue’s capacity will temporarily expand to over 25,000 seats, making it the largest Olympic swimming venue in Australian history and surpassing the size of the facility used in Paris 2024. Following the Olympics and Paralympics, the National Aquatic Centre will offer a lasting, world-class facility with a permanent seating capacity of 8,000, providing long-term benefits for Australia’s aquatic sports community.

While most aquatic events for the 2032 Games are planned for this new Spring Hill location, the Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler will also undergo necessary upgrades to support the competitions.

Community and National Benefits

Aquatic sports bodies across Australia have strongly supported the development of the National Aquatic Centre in Brisbane, seeing it as a vital legacy project from the 2032 Games. Other potential locations would not meet the long-term needs of both the sporting community and the broader public.

Concerns have been raised that temporary pool solutions or relying solely on existing facilities would fail to provide a lasting aquatic legacy for Brisbane and Queensland. Upgrading the Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler alone is insufficient to address current challenges or deliver significant future benefits.

The proposal for the Spring Hill site aims to create a vibrant community space that will generate economic, health, and social advantages for many years after the Games conclude. The main indoor pool has been designed to accommodate 19,350 spectators during the 2032 Games, which later reduced to at least 5,850 seats. The second indoor pool will have 5,000 seats during the Games, with a legacy capacity of 2,500.

The National Aquatic Centre’s location is also noted for its good access to public transport, being within walking distance of the Exhibition railway line and Brisbane Metro. Its proximity to Brisbane City and Spring Hill hotels and restaurants, suitable land for construction, and potential for expanded parking to serve nearby facilities like the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital are also advantages.

A Hub for Aquatic Sports

The National Aquatic Centre is expected to unlock significant opportunities for Australia’s four major aquatic sports. It will provide a central location for daily high-performance training, athlete development pathways, and community access for people of all ages and abilities.

This project is viewed as a chance to honour Australia’s strong connection to aquatic sports and potentially establish South-East Queensland as a leading global centre for water sports. The long-term strategy has received endorsement from the Australian Olympic Committee, Paralympics Australia, and World Aquatics.

The national aquatic bodies consider investment in a new, permanent facility essential. Research from the Royal Life Saving Society Australia indicates a growing demand for existing public pools and the increasing social value they provide to communities nationwide.

Games Infrastructure Plan

The Queensland Government said the Spring Hill is a key legacy infrastructure for Greater Brisbane from the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This plan emerged from a review process and stakeholder consultation.

While a new Brisbane Stadium at Victoria Park will be the central Games precinct, the aquatic centre in Spring Hill is a significant sporting venue. Upgrades are also planned for other sporting facilities across Brisbane. Queensland has stated that this infrastructure plan will deliver lasting benefits for decades after the Games.

Olympic champion Cam McEvoy expressed his excitement about the NAC, seeing it as a venue to inspire future athletes and provide state-of-the-art training facilities. He highlighted South-East Queensland’s strong performance in swimming and believes the NAC will further solidify this.

Published Date 16-May-2025

Spring Hill to Become Home of Australia’s Largest Aquatic Venue for 2032 Games

A world-class aquatic centre will rise in Spring Hill, transforming the existing Centenary Pool site into Australia’s premier venue for Olympic swimming, diving, and water polo.

A National Aquatic Hub in the Heart of Brisbane

The new National Aquatic Centre will serve as the cornerstone for aquatic events during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Located just 1.5 kilometres from the CBD, the facility will include two major indoor stadiums, elite training pools, and space for community use.

During the Games, the venue will expand to seat more than 25,000 spectators with temporary seating, making it one of the largest aquatics arenas in Olympic history. After the Games, it will maintain a legacy capacity of 8,000 permanent seats, ensuring ongoing benefits for Australia’s aquatic sports community. It will also support the nation’s four peak aquatic sports bodies and continue to host elite competitions and training programs.

Long-Term Benefits Beyond the Podium

The Spring Hill centre was selected not just for its central location, but also for its access to existing public transport and nearby green space, aiming to make it both high-performance and highly accessible. The project is part of a broader infrastructure strategy to support Brisbane’s long-term growth and sporting culture.

Upgrades to the Chandler-based Brisbane Aquatic Centre will complement the Spring Hill facility, ensuring additional capacity for training and competition throughout the Games. The Spring Hill development will operate alongside other venues, including a new Brisbane Stadium at Victoria Park and a revitalised RNA Showgrounds, all aimed at creating a cohesive and connected Games precinct.

Victoria Park Olympic Stadium — *Photo Credit: Delivering2032*

Athlete Support Reflects Excitement and Legacy

Australian Olympians have welcomed the announcement of the National Aquatic Centre in Spring Hill with open arms, describing it as a landmark for the future of aquatic sports.

Four-time Olympian and Paris 2024 gold medallist Cameron McEvoy said the centre will play a vital role in inspiring future athletes. Reflecting on his own childhood experience at Sydney Olympic Park, he said seeing an Olympic venue in person had a lasting impact. He believes the Spring Hill facility will offer that same spark for the next generation, calling it a venue that will ignite dreams and enable them to be realised through world-class training environments.

McEvoy noted the centre will feature the latest high-performance technology and the capacity for multiple aquatic sports to train side-by-side, setting a new national standard. He added that South-East Queensland’s Olympic success at Paris 2024 makes the region an ideal home for such a facility.

*Photo Credit: Australian Olympic Committee*

Paralympic swimmer Lakeisha Patterson shared similar views, describing the centre as a game changer not only for performance but for inclusivity. She highlighted the importance of a venue that showcases athletes of all abilities and fosters an environment where every Australian can feel encouraged to participate. For her, the centre represents a powerful legacy that extends beyond competition.

Swimming Australia CEO Rob Woodhouse also spoke about the significance of the project, describing it as the most important investment in aquatic sport in Australian history. He said it would serve the community for the next 50 years and help maintain Australia’s strength in aquatic sports, from learn-to-swim programs to the elite level.

Community Impact and Infrastructure Legacy

The 2032 Delivery Plan, shaped by community input and expert reviews, outlines more than just sporting venues. It includes major improvements to Brisbane’s transport system and public facilities. The aquatic centre will be a drawcard for national and international events while providing recreational access to residents for decades to come.

Queensland leaders stated that this Spring Hill site, alongside other key venues, would position Brisbane as a destination for major sporting and entertainment events well beyond 2032. Community access and multi-use planning are central to the centre’s long-term purpose, with the goal of promoting health, fitness, and engagement in aquatic sports across generations.

Published 26-March-2025