The owners of the Soho Brisbane hotel in Spring Hill have filed legal action in response to the approval of a proposed 15-storey hotel development at Wickham Terrace, citing concerns about its potential impact on the surrounding area, including Roma Street Parkland and their business.
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Soho Corporation and Starville have lodged a notice of appeal with the Planning and Environment Court, opposing the Council’s decision to greenlight the development (A006326383) in December.
The proposed hotel, set to be built at 309 Wickham Terrace in Spring Hill, is planned to feature 92 guest rooms. Additionally, the development includes a rooftop bar, a dedicated function facility, and a dining venue that could operate as either a restaurant or a café.
Prior to the approval, there were 18 submissions made regarding the development, all of which objected to the proposal. Concerns were raised over the scale of the project and its potential effects on the surrounding community.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the proposed rooftop terrace and its potential impact on nearby properties. The appeal contends that the approved development may not meet community expectations and does not fully integrate with the surrounding urban context.
According to the appeal, the owners of the existing hotel believe the new development’s height and scale do not align with the character of Spring Hill and could lead to disruptions during construction. They argue that the proposed design does not adequately incorporate subtropical architectural elements or sufficient green spaces.
The developer asserts that the design respects the heritage identity of Wickham Terrace, drawing inspiration from structures such as Athol Place, Craigston, and the Spring Hill Reservoir.
In the planning documents, the developer also stated that the building would incorporate a combination of screening and obscured glazing to protect the privacy of neighbouring properties and patrons. Additionally, they argued that the proposed boundary setbacks were appropriate for the site context and would not hinder future development on adjoining properties.
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The site designated for the new hotel is located approximately 200 metres west of the historic Spring Hill windmill and is currently occupied by a four-storey, 12-unit apartment building. The matter is now before the Planning and Environment Court for further consideration.
Published 12-February-2025