Olympic 2032: Major makeover proposed for Central Station to transform inner-city gateway

UK firm proposes major Central Station revamp for 2032 Olympics

A UK-based architecture firm has proposed a comprehensive transformation of Brisbane’s Central Station to prepare the inner-city hub for the 2032 Olympic Games. John McAslan + Partners described the current site as an “old, tired and grimy embarrassment” that requires urgent upgrading. The Brisbane Times reported that the plan aims to turn the station into a light-filled gateway for international visitors arriving from the airport.

The proposal seeks to resolve long-standing issues with the station’s layout, low ceilings, and difficult navigation. Troy Uleman, a Queenslander and Sydney-based director for the firm, stated that the station is the city’s primary first impression for tourists. He argued that the current design fails to intuitively guide passengers, leaving many confused about whether to descend into tunnels or ascend towards the light.

Design changes focus on light and flow

The architects highlighted that Central Station is currently buried beneath the Sofitel hotel and a brutalist office block. The Brisbane Times noted that this positioning has disconnected the station from its surrounding precincts. The new design proposes simplifying the layout so that way-finding signage reinforces what visitors and commuters naturally see.

A key element of the proposal involves installing new escalators to “end load” the platforms. Uleman explained that the station historically accessed platforms from the ends rather than the middle. He stated that returning to this original flow would help resolve capacity issues for the very busy station.

The firm also identified a critical need to open the station up to the north. Uleman described the current north-south connection across the city as “diabolical” for pedestrians trying to reach King Edward Park. He argued that the station currently breaks this vital link, hindering movement between the city centre and northern green spaces.</p

Historical context and past failures

This proposal arrives almost a decade after the Palaszczuk government announced a $67 million refurbishment of the station. The Brisbane Times reported that this ambitious project was not ultimately fully delivered. The gap between the initial announcement and the current state of the station has left the inner-city hub in a state of disrepair.

John McAslan + Partners has a strong track record in station design and heritage restoration. The firm was responsible for the renowned 2012 restoration of London’s Kings Cross station. They also led the upgrade of Sydney’s Central Station. Uleman suggested that their experience makes them well-suited to handle the complex heritage and modernisation needs of Brisbane’s Central Station.

The firm’s involvement in the 2012 London project demonstrated an ability to transform tired Victorian infrastructure into modern transport hubs. Their work on Sydney’s Central Station further proved they could navigate the challenges of upgrading a major city terminal without losing its historical character. These precedents provide a strong foundation for their proposed work in Brisbane.

Strategic role in Olympic precinct planning

The proposal positions Central Station as a critical node in the broader Olympic transport network. Uleman stated that transport must lead, not follow, Olympic precinct planning. He identified Central, Roma Street, and Fortitude Valley stations as the three most important prominent stations on the network for the Games.

These three stations will serve as the primary points for people coming and going from all Olympic Games events in Victoria Park. The planned Brisbane Stadium at Victoria Park will make the north-south connection even more vital. Uleman noted that reconnection works at Central could eventually link Victoria Park and the Olympics, bringing people down into the station and into the CBD.

Uleman emphasized that the green connection between the stadium and the city centre is essential for the Games. He argued that the station must be ready to handle the influx of spectators before the event begins. This proactive approach contrasts with previous planning where transport infrastructure often lagged behind venue development.

Impact on local communities and future connectivity

For residents of New Farm, Teneriffe, Newstead, and Fortitude Valley, the proposed changes could significantly alter daily commuting patterns. The current difficulty in navigating the station affects thousands of locals who rely on the rail network. Improving way-finding and reducing congestion at the platforms would directly benefit these inner-city suburbs.

The potential reopening of the north-south connection addresses a long-standing frustration for pedestrians. Locals have long complained about the lack of a direct path from the station to King Edward Park. Restoring this link would encourage walking and cycling, reducing reliance on cars for short trips within the inner city.

Businesses in the surrounding precincts could also see benefits from a more accessible station. A “light-filled gateway” is more likely to attract foot traffic to nearby shops and cafes. The current grimy and disconnected state of the station likely discourages visitors from exploring the immediate neighbourhoods of Fortitude Valley and Newstead.

Property values in the area may also be influenced by the success of the upgrade. A modern, efficient transport hub generally increases the desirability of nearby residential and commercial properties. The $67 million project that was not fully delivered left a void that this new proposal aims to fill.

Uncertainties and next steps

Questions remain regarding the role of Exhibition Station during the Games. The Brisbane Times reported that its use is an open question due to its probable location in the security overlay for the athletes’ village at the Brisbane Showgrounds. No decision has been made about a new station to specifically service the planned Victoria Park stadium and aquatic centre.

Uleman acknowledged that his firm might not be involved in the final delivery of the project. He stated that regardless of who builds it, something needs to be done at Central before 2032. He expressed hope that their proposal would at least spark conversations in Queensland’s corridors of power.

Residents and commuters will need to watch for official responses from the state government and Translink. The proposal is currently a design concept intended to stimulate discussion. Future public consultation dates or funding announcements will determine if this vision becomes a reality for the 2032 Olympic host city.

Sources

https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/olympic-glow-up-proposed-for-tired-central-station-20260316-p5oauy.html