Fortitude Valley Site Flagged for Large-Scale Housing

Crown land on one of inner-city Brisbane’s most historic streets is being eyed for large-scale development to combat Queensland’s housing crisis.

A detailed evaluation is being undertaken to determine the potential of the government-owned land at Ivory Street, Fortitude Valley.

The site—bounded by McLachlan Lane, Ivory and Brunswick streets—spans 1518sq m and is partially occupied by Festival House, a four-storey heritage building originally built in 1890 as a tobacco factory for Dixon and Sons.

Since a $2.5-million refurbishment in 1998, the building has been occupied by key Queensland arts organisations.

A business case exploring and evaluating “supportive housing outcomes” is to be developed for the site.

But according to a statement, the site “could deliver housing solutions at scale”.

“This project could potentially include a range of housing options including social, affordable, including supportive accommodation, and a centre for drop-in services and other facilities,” it said.

“The scope of the project will be underpinned by a detailed needs assessment.”

With the site identified as part of the Queensland Government’s audit of government land and buildings to find sites that may be suitable housing outcomes, Ivory Street’s history has come full circle.

Back in 1918, it was a place for major political meetings, many addressing the concerns of homelessness.

An initial shortlist of 27 large sites, 419 small sites and 177 council sites have been identified from the government’s audit of its underutilised assets.

Of the sites, 26 have have had initial investigations completed, with recommendations for sites, including Ivory Street, progressing to the next stages of planning.

Investment cases are being undertaken on all the sites, including Ivory Street, with a view to a decision by late 2024.

“Having lived in this area practically my whole life, I’ve seen the Valley evolve to meet the needs of our community—and what we need now is more homes for Queenslanders,” State Development and Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace said.

“We know there is a need for more large-scale housing developments in inner-city Brisbane and the Ivory Street site is one that has been identified.

“There is significant interest from across the community and the sector in this site and its potential to provide safe, secure and affordable housing for potentially hundreds of Queenslanders.”

Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said ther Ivory Street site had “a huge amount of potential”.

“I’m eager to see what the business case shows we can do here,” she said.

“It’s located right in the heart of Brisbane, close to public transport, jobs and support—it makes sense to build more homes here.”