Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley to ‘Grow Up’ Under New Plan

Inner-city Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley is being told to grow up.

Increased building heights will be considered under a new neighbourhood plan aimed at unlocking housing development opportunities in the city fringe entertainment hub.

And according to Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, there is no threat of the volume being turned down on the precinct, which boasts the highest number of live music venues in Australia.

“Fortitude Valley is already close to transport, jobs and entertainment, and with major Brisbane [Olympic] 2032 venues nearby, it’s the right place to welcome more people to live near where they work and play,” he said.

“This new plan will unlock new housing, boost entertainment options and further activate one of our most vibrant inner-city precincts.

“By enabling new homes and backing the Valley’s live music and creative industries, we’re strengthening its day-and-night-time economy and protecting the character that makes this precinct unique.”

The announcement of the Fortitude Valley Sustainable Growth Precinct Plan follows a similar strategy encompassing South Brisbane and West End, as well as suburban renewal precinct plans at Woolloongabba, Stones Corner and Wynnum.

Schrinner said more than 600 people were moving to the Queensland capital every week, adding to housing supply pressures exacerbated by labour shortages and construction costs.

“Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities and we’re committed to supporting the delivery of more homes sooner while protecting our incredible lifestyle,” he said.

Almost 28,000 people work in the Valley—as it is popularly referred to by local residents—and about 11,500 already call it home.

Its building heights currently range from eight storeys in the Warner Street and James Street area, 20 and 30 storeys respectively in the Valley Gateway and Valley Heart precincts.

▲ A map of the area affected by the plans to revitalise Fortitude Valley. Source: The Brisbane City Council

The existing neighbourhood plan has been in place for 15 years.

Under the updated plan, the focus is on “growing up, not out” with greater building heights to be considered in some locations to “respond to significant growth and changes in the area”.

The key areas of the strategy include land surrounding Fortitude Valley train station and sections of Wickham, Ann and Brunswick streets.

Community consultation will help determine the height limit ranges with engagement planned from December to February. The release of a draft precinct plan is slated for later next year with a view to state government approval in 2027.

As well, the new plan is designed “to strengthen connections to nearby Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games venues”—including improved walking and cycling links, better wayfinding and upgraded public spaces”.

“These updates will reinforce Fortitude Valley’s role as a vibrant mixed-use precinct with a thriving day-and-night-time economy anchored by live music, entertainment, retail and hospitality,” a statement said.

Valley Chamber of Commerce president Lynley Welsh said Fortitude Valley was “in need of clear revitalisation of growth in business and residential developments and opportunities in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games”.

“The new plan showcases clarity in sustainable growth across multiple sectors—housing, business and thriving entertainment precincts.”