Architecture & Access, ensuring accessibility is considered
The Architecture & Access Brisbane’s office has been working with Brisbane City Council on the Green Bridges program in the role of Accessibility and Inclusion Advisor. This very exciting project will bring Brisbane together between the north and south of the river and provide greatly needed pedestrian and cycle connections to this growing city. As indicated below four bridges will be provided at Breakfast Creek (Bowen Hills), CBD to Kangaroo Point, Toowong to West End and St Lucia to West End. The Green Bridges Progam is another vital part of the plan to prepare Brisbane for the most accessibile and sustainable Olympic and Paralympic Games in 2032. The bridges will provide an easier way for residents and visitors moving around the city by foot or cycle or when connecting with public transport.
Architecture & Access’ role is to ensure that accessibility is considered in the design of the Bridges and its connections, as these structures are not considered a building, and therefore not governed by the building code.
The bridges and connections were assessed, relative to the current requirements referenced in the Australian Standards that cover external pathways, street furniture, lighting, wayfinding and tactile ground surface indicators and Brisbane City Councils A City for Everyone: Draft Inclusive Brisbane Plan 2019-2029 – Theme 1: Connect. A city where everyone moves around safely and easily. These documents were used as the agreed benchmark to meet the objectives of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) of safe, dignified, and equitable access are for all users of this infrastructure.
More than just a bridge project, the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge will become a must-visit destination for residents and visitors to Brisbane, with the final design featuring several unique riverside dining opportunities.
In June 2021, Council awarded the contract to Connect Brisbane, led by BESIX Watpac, to design and construct the Kangaroo Point Green Bridge. Construction will start in late 2021, with expected completion by late 2023.
