Toowong development Archives

Toowong Proposal Seeks to Merge Seniors Living with Memorial Park Landscape

A proposal has been lodged for a nine-storey retirement facility in Toowong that aims to extend the leafy atmosphere of the neighbouring Memorial Park directly into a new high-rise residential space.

The application for the site at 1 Croydon Street and 9-15 Bayliss Street outlines a vision where the building does not just sit beside the park but incorporates it into the design. Architects from Jackson Teece have created a plan where more than 30 per cent of the site is dedicated to deep planting.

The design includes a large, landscaped courtyard at the entrance on Bayliss Street, with greenery cascading over the edges of the building levels above. This approach is intended to create a seamless visual link between the private residences and the public green space next door.

To respect the character of the street, the building is designed to appear as a five-storey structure when viewed from Bayliss Street. The upper levels are recessed toward the rear of the site, eventually rising to the full nine storeys adjacent to the park. The development would replace the existing structures on the 3,670-square-metre site.

Inside, the facility plans to house 53 independent living units tailored for seniors. The mix includes 32 two-bedroom units, 16 three-bedroom units, and five larger three-plus bedroom dwellings. Planners at Urbis noted that the project is designed to offer a balance of comfort and community connection. They emphasised that the inclusion of a wellness centre, dining areas, and various recreational amenities would support social interaction among residents.

The development proposes two levels of podium parking to accommodate the needs of residents and guests. The plans allow for 87 on-site car parking spaces. This allocation includes 70 spots specifically for residents, 15 for visitors, and two spaces designated for persons with disabilities.

The rooftop garden serves as another key feature, adding to the extensive landscaping proposed for the site. By incorporating dense planting on the Level 2 terrace and the roof, the developers aim to ensure the building contributes to the subtropical feel of the Toowong area. The project is currently awaiting assessment by the local council.

Published Date 15-January-2026

Toowong Site Sold to Gold Coast Developer as Locals Watch for What Comes Next

Photo Credit: CBRE

A well-known block in the heart of Toowong has been bought for $9.5 million by a Gold Coast-based developer, sparking local interest about its future, though no development application has been submitted yet.

A Central Toowong Location Draws Developer Interest

Immerse Projects stepped into Brisbane’s apartment market in July with the $9.5 million purchase of a prominent Toowong site. Located at 22–24 Sylvan Road, the 1,760-square-metre block sits beside the Regatta Hotel and stretches across two street frontages.

It’s within walking distance of shops, schools, hospitals, and key public transport links. CBRE said the zoning supports mixed-use development up to 10 storeys without impact assessment. Despite this, no development application has been lodged and plans for the site remain under wraps.

Immerse Projects Expands North from the Gold Coast

Immerse Projects, known for its work on the Gold Coast, has made its first Brisbane land buy with the Toowong site. The company is eyeing a residential project suited to the area, according to CBRE.

Any future development would still require planning approval. CBRE also noted rising demand for inner-city sites and a growing presence of builder-developers like Immerse in Brisbane.

Toowong at the Centre of Renewal

Toowong is already seeing a shift in its urban landscape. In recent years, large parcels such as the Aviary precinct and Monarch Residences have attracted investment interest and major projects. Locals have watched as older retail sites and former industrial blocks are bought up for future housing and mixed-use developments.

The new owner’s interest adds to the suburb’s momentum, though the absence of a formal DA means the community is waiting to see what form the next change may take. For now, the site remains vacant and unchanged, though its potential has clearly caught attention.

What Happens Next?

With no development application lodged, there are no confirmed designs or timelines for the Toowong site. Residents near Sylvan Road and the Regatta Hotel are keeping watch for planning notices or public consultation.

As of early August, Brisbane City Council records show no new applications. Immerse Projects’ plans remain unclear and will depend on future approvals and community input.

Published 04-August-2025

Toowong Central Redevelopment Progresses with Community Feedback

Photo Credit: DA/A006427990

A major redevelopment at the former Woolworths site in Toowong is progressing, with updated plans incorporating community input on public space, design, and facilities.

New Ownership and Ongoing Planning at Toowong Central

Toowong’s former Woolworths supermarket site—spanning 1.4 hectares and bordered by High Street, Sherwood Road and Jephson Street—is undergoing significant transformation.

Since acquiring the site in late 2023, the new private owners have initiated early planning to convert the area into a mixed-use commercial, retail and residential precinct. This follows earlier challenges, including non-compliance with prior approval conditions related to site upkeep and fencing.

BCC has confirmed that the current owners were not responsible for conditions before their acquisition. A change application (A006427990) submitted in December 2023 is currently under assessment, with BCC emphasising that any amendments must deliver improved safety and visual amenity.

Toowong Central plans — *Photo Credit: DA/A006427990*

Community Engagement and Design Concepts

Community involvement has played a central role in shaping the future of the Toowong Central site. Since early 2024, hundreds of residents have contributed via surveys and local events. Feedback focused on character, open spaces and facilities.

Preliminary concepts include a 2,800m² public space featuring an activated retail zone and a subtropical landscape design. One feature under consideration is an interactive “water veil” with night-time lighting. Plans also suggest fewer, taller buildings, creating space for a central town square accessible from High and Jephson Streets.

Public vs Private: Ownership and Access

The proposed public space within the redevelopment is privately owned, despite being publicly accessible. This has raised questions among locals about long-term access rights and maintenance responsibilities.

Comparisons have been drawn to other Brisbane sites such as West Village in West End (2,118m² of public space) and Gasworks Plaza in Newstead (2,230m²), both of which operate under similar public-private arrangements.

commercial plans — *Photo Credit: DA/A006427990*

Local Sentiment and Feedback

Online community discussions have reflected a mix of enthusiasm and concern. Some residents have questioned whether the greenery will feel authentic and spacious compared to existing developments.

Others are eager for construction to begin, citing the need for new housing. In response to community queries, city official Penny Wolff confirmed that the number of storeys in the new buildings is yet to be determined.

Toowong Central site — *Photo Credit: CrPennyWolff/Facebook*

BCC has stated that community input opportunities will continue once design and planning advance. Residents are encouraged to have their say. Feedback can be sent to info@theheartoftoowong.org.

Next Steps for Toowong Central

While the current design is still in development, further updates are expected as the planning application progresses. The project aims to strike a balance between housing growth, accessibility and lifestyle quality in the Toowong area.

Published 28-Mar-2025