An unloved former ice works in Brisbane’s bayside could find a new lease on life as an upmarket waterfront dining destination.
Bayside locals Adam and Kylie Lipke have put forward the plans for the disused site, which has been closed since 2012.
Wynnum-based architects Thinktank were engaged to reimagine the ice-works site, which dates back to 1919, as a rooftop dining venue that pays homage to its history as a fish market.
Plans for the 2560sq m site at 18 Fox Street, Wynnum, include the refurbishment and redevelopment of the seafood market to create a flagship restaurant and dining venue, according to Willowtree Planning documents.
“The design respectfully acknowledges the site’s historical significance while introducing a diversified offering that ensures it remains relevant and purposeful as the bayside area continues to grow,” the report said.
“[The plan] proposes redevelopment of the site to establish a restaurant and dining venue. The ground floor features a takeaway kitchen and restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining areas.”
The first floor of the two-storey development would include event space, according to the plans.
The site won approval for a restaurant redevelopment in 2021, however, revised plans would also include the replacement of piles and decking over the water.
Community consultation has provided strong support for the redevelopment of the derelict landmark site.
According to Cotality data, the site, which backs on to parkland, sold for $4 million in 2024.
The site is partly zoned for industrial and open space, but planners said the site no longer fitted that use and the proposal followed the urbanisation of similar waterfront sites.
Hawkins Capital, headed by Roz and Rob Shaw, this year filed plans with the Brisbane City Council for a lowrise five-storey apartment block it says will capture the coastal cool of Wynnum.
The project comprises 10 apartments across five storeys, designed by MAS Architecture Studio.
MAS architect Nick Symonds said the project would stand out for its “striking water-inspired profile”.
