In 2008 the department (then Department of Infrastructure and Planning) commissioned world renowned urban quality consultants, Gehl Architects, to conduct a study and prepare a ‘People Oriented Vision for Brisbane’ strategy. The aim of the study was to inform and support the River City Blueprint - an overarching plan to guide the growth and development of Brisbane’s inner city.

The study

The study covered an area within a 5 km radius from the Brisbane Central Business District–analysing pedestrian, cyclist and traffic movement across a selection of corridors and spaces within this area. Key elements of the study included analysing:

• pedestrian and cyclist use patterns
• the quality and function of public space
• links between pedestrian and cyclist networks as they relate to key activity and public transport nodes and stations.

Results

Results of the study were used to develop a ‘People Oriented Vision for Brisbane’ strategy. The strategy discusses the challenges faced by Brisbane, the nature of change required and the benefits for inner Brisbane of focusing on a more sustainable, liveable and active city. Key recommendations include:

Towards a city for all

• increasing density and reducing car dependency
• reducing driving and opening possibilities for alternatives
• providing a more people-oriented, safe and inclusive city.

Towards a barrier-free city

• improving connectivity and reducing traffic barriers
• linking public transport with quality public spaces
• providing well-connected public spaces.

Towards an inviting city

• improving conditions for walking
• introducing cycling on a city-wide scale
• improving green space accessibility.

Next steps

The ‘People Oriented Vision for Brisbane’ strategy is being used to inform the development of the River City Blueprint to achieve a sustainable, liveable and active city. It will also be used to guide the Queensland Government on other major planning initiatives undertaken around the state.

The ‘People Oriented Vision for Brisbane’ strategy demonstrates how Growth Management Queensland is working towards a prosperous and sustainable future through good planning and proactive growth management.

View A People Oriented Vision for Brisbane:

• A People Oriented Vision for Brisbane - part 1 ( 1.2 MB)
• A People Oriented Vision for Brisbane - part 2 ( 2.5 MB)
• A People Oriented Vision for Brisbane - part 3 ( 4.4 MB)