A modern new gateway to South Bank's entertainment precinct will soon be a reality, with works about to get underway to upgrade Platform 1 at South Bank train station, improving accessibility and better connecting it to the adjoining Southpoint development.
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said the $25 million project will support up to 250 construction jobs.
"South Bank station is one of the busiest train stations on our network, and a key destination for tourists visiting our city, so this investment by the Palaszczuk Government will benefit visitors and locals alike," Mr Bailey said.
"Across the state the Palaszczuk Government is delivering a $27.5 billion roads and transport plan over the next four years which is creating 24,000 jobs and driving Queensland's economic recovery from COVID-19.
"This project will deliver a full-length raised platform, which will ensure easier, safer access for everyone in the community, including those using mobility devices, seniors and customers travelling with prams and luggage.
"New platform seating and waiting shelters will make it more comfortable, while new lighting, CCTV, and station signage will further modernise platform facilities.
"From a local perspective, South East Queensland's population is continuing to grow.
"The Palaszczuk Government is committed to providing real transport alternatives that encourage people to leave their car at home, and this project is just one example of that.
"This is also a much-needed upgrade, with South Bank being a key venue for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games.
"The station connects to the Southpoint development completed in 2018, so I'm looking forward to the platform's features being improved, to bring them into line with the modern precinct and help make a positive impression on visitors arriving to South Bank by train."
Queensland Rail Head of SEQ Scott Riedel advised customers to be aware of temporary closures of Platform 1 while work is underway.
"While the station will remain open and operational during construction, there will be temporary closures of Platform 1 over approximately 16 nominated weekends in 2021 and 2022 to allow for the upgrades to be undertaken efficiently and safely," Mr Riedel said.
"During these selected weekends, trains will run express through Platform 1 at South Bank.
"Platforms 2 and 3 will operate as normal and only outbound trains will be affected.
"Customers will have the option to use nearby South Brisbane station, or travel a stop further to Park Road station, where they can change to an inbound service to South Bank.
"We're asking customers to please allow up to 30 minutes extra travel time if you need to use these alternate options during a Platform 1 closure.
"We appreciate this is an inconvenience for our rail customers and for nearby residents, who may notice enhanced construction activity over the period. Queensland Rail will engage with nearby residents directly regarding any impacts throughout the project.
"Every effort will be made to minimise disruption and we thank you for your patience while we make these important upgrades."
Site establishment will begin on 29 September and construction will commence shortly after on 23 October.
The project is scheduled to be completed in 2023.
ENDS
Background
Service changes
All timetabled Platform 1 services to Cleveland, Beenleigh and the Gold Coast will run express from South Brisbane to Park Road during nominated weekend closures - these services will not stop at South Bank station.
Platform 2 and 3 will remain open and all inbound services will operate as normal. The Doomben to Park Road outbound service that uses platform 3 on Saturday, will continue to operate as normal. Customers can disembark on platform 2 and 3 at South Bank station, during the platform 1 closures.
Alternative transport
Customers are encouraged to use Park Road as an alternative station during Platform 1 works. If you are travelling outbound to South Bank station, you can disembark at Park Road and catch any inbound service back to platforms 2 and 3 at South Bank station.
Alternatively, if you are travelling outbound to South Bank station, you can disembark at South Brisbane station and walk 850 metres to South Bank station (approximately 11 minutes walk).
Customers at South Bank station who need to catch a Cleveland, Beenleigh or Gold Coast line service, can catch any service from platforms 2 and 3 and change trains at South Brisbane.
Alternatively, if you are travelling outbound from South Bank station, you can catch a bus service from the South Bank busway station to Park Road busway station and board a southbound train service.
Passengers requiring assistance should speak to Station staff.
Scheduled weekend closures of Platform 1
Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 October
Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 November 2021
Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 November 2021
Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 December 2021
Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 January 2022
Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February 2022
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 February 2022
Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March 2022
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 April 2022
Saturday 30 April and Sunday 1 May 2022
Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 May 2022
Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 June 2022
Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 June 2022
Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 July 2022
Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 July 2022
Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2022.