The approval of the $500 million Howard Smith Wharves expansion marks another exciting milestone in Brisbane’s transformation into a globally recognised River City.
The major redevelopment, recently approved by Brisbane City Council, will deliver a new boutique hotel, expanded dining and entertainment offerings, redesigned floodproof pontoons, improved river access and even Brisbane’s first over-river pool.
Importantly, this project will also place new focus on the Brisbane River’s value as a key tourism and lifestyle asset for the city.
Raptis Investments Head of Leasing Arthur Raptis warmly welcomed news of the Howard Smith Wharves expansion.
“This is fantastic news for Brisbane and for the future of the river,” Arthur said.
“Howard Smith Wharves has already been quite instrumental in the way people interact with the Brisbane River, and this next stage takes that vision even further.
“It’s exciting to see major investment continuing to flow into riverfront destinations and experiences because it reinforces the enormous long-term potential of Brisbane’s marine tourism industry.”
The approved redevelopment includes upgraded pontoons and new river access infrastructure designed to better connect visitors with river-based tourism experiences and Moreton Bay.
Arthur said projects like Howard Smith Wharves and Colmslie Wharves could work hand in hand to create a more connected and activated river ecosystem.
“Public river activation and commercial marine infrastructure need to grow together,” he said.
“Projects like Howard Smith Wharves create incredible destinations and experiences on the water, while Colmslie Wharves provides the operational backbone that gives tourism operators the confidence they need to service these precincts.”
