Shorncliffe station renewal project and accessibility upgrade

Shorncliffe station was originally called Sandgate station when it was built in 1897.

​​​​​​​​Early investigations 

During the early stages of the project, hundreds of objects were uncovered in the subfloor of Shorncliffe train station. Initial assessment of the heritage items – including train tickets, clothing, newspapers and bottles – suggest the items date back to the 1890s.

Queensland Rail engaged the independent heritage assessors to assist with safely removing the items and cataloguing them in line with best practice heritage investigation processes. During that process, more than 900 items were uncovered. Due to the age of some of the items found, further site investigations were required and the dig formally concluded in February 2021.

Since completion of the dig, Queensland Rail has been investigating opportunities to rehoming some of the heritage finds.

In addition to the archaeological dig, Queensland Rail's initial investigations of the station building also detected significant structural issues, which need to be addressed through bracing and staged works as part of the restoration.

The impact of the heritage discoveries and structural issues on the project timeframes has meant that Queensland Rail has reassessed timeframes to include these changes to the scope. While the extra works have affected the project timeline, it's extremely important that we get this project right and treat the 1897 building - and piece of our local history – with respect.   

The impact to timeframes has also presented the opportunity to revise the scope to include an accessibility upgrade and restoration of Shorncliffe station.

New concept designs

Image of platform concept​​

Concept design of the new acc​essible platform at Shorncliffe station - subject to change 

The Shorncliffe station renewal project and accessibility upgrade is now part of Queensland Rail's Station Accessibility Upgrade Program, which focuses on upgrading station infrastructure provide easier access to public transport.

Restoration works will focus on:

  • the station building, an iconic feature of the local community requiring extensive works to preserve its heritage for future generations
  • restoring the station building and air raid shelter near to their original 1897 footprint.

Shorncliffe station accessibility upgrade will include:

  • raising the full length of the platform
  • installing wayfinding signage, tactile indicators, accessible ramps and seats, public address system and hearing aid loop technology.

Other new station features include bike storage, unisex accessible toilets, upgraded lighting, telecommunications and CCTV, restoration of the existing awning and installation of new awnings to cover 60 per cent of the platform.
The restoration is central to upgrading the station. Queensland Rail engaged architects to draft the concept design that considers the restoration of the station building and air raid shelter while seamlessly integrating the accessible features of the upgrade such as the raised full length platform. Heritage specialists have continued their involvement with the project to ensure the restoration and upgrade meet heritage requirements.

Consultation has now closed 

Queensland Rail is reviewing the feedback received from customers and the community with the project team considering any feedback that can be incorporated into the final design.    

We will update the community on the station upgrade features as planning and design progresses.​

Keeping you informed

Queensland Rail is committed to keeping stakeholders and the community informed.

For more information, contact stations upgrade team on 1800 722 203, 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, or email stationsupgrade@qr.com.au

Resources

Concept designs


Project information

  • Project update - January 2023 PDF​
  • Pro​ject update - October 2022 ​PDF
  • Shorncliffe open day - 17 July 2021  PDF
  • Project update - July 2020  PDF
  • Project update - October 2019  PDF