THE long-debated Toondah Harbour redevelopment remains very much alive, with Walker Corporation continuing work on a revised and significantly scaled-back concept for the waterfront precinct.
Toondah Harbour spokesman Dolan Hayes said Walker was actively progressing a new draft concept plan for the Toondah Harbour Priority Development Area, signalling ongoing commitment to the project.
“Walker is continuing to work on the draft concept plan for the Toondah Harbour PDA area,” Mr Hayes said.
“The revised draft plan is proposed as a smaller ‘on land’ mixed-use destination, positioned within the footprint of the existing port and adjacent buildings, with no development within GJ Walter Park.
“The plan aims to fund upgrades to the port area, increase public car parking and provide new local housing, employment, tourism and placemaking opportunities.”
The updated concept follows strong backing from Redland City Council, with councillors supportive of a revised vision at a private briefing last year that significantly reduces the scale of development while prioritising environmental protection and public access.
However, no official council resolution has been passed.
Under the new approach, the project focuses on revitalising the existing port, delivering improved public amenities and infrastructure, and protecting sensitive areas near the internationally protected Moreton Bay wetlands.
The concept includes a modernised harbour, up to 900 residential dwellings, 50 per cent more free public parking, retail spaces, and community-focused improvements such as boardwalks and green spaces.
Crucially, the revised proposal guarantees protection of GJ Walter Park, ensuring no development will occur on the popular green space — a key concern raised by residents during earlier consultations.
The original Toondah Harbour proposal had attracted widespread opposition due to its scale and potential environmental impacts.
The scaled-back plan represents a marked shift toward a more sustainable, community-focused outcome, with any future environmental approvals expected to be far less extensive than previously anticipated.
Champion Redlands Coast board member Nathan Moore said the business community welcomed progress on the project.
“The board of Champion Redlands Coast looks forward to the release of the plans, as Toondah Harbour is an important gateway for tourism and economic growth in the Redlands leading into the 2032 Olympics,” Mr Moore said.
The proposal will now be considered by the State Government, which will determine the appropriate planning pathway and any environmental assessment requirements.
Further community consultation is expected once those processes are clarified.
If approvals proceed as anticipated, construction could begin as early as next year, with the aim of delivering a revitalised waterfront precinct ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
