Yahoo Finance Popular venue to close amid Olympic plans
A popular Brisbane watering hole for residents and visitors alike will be temporarily closed to make way for the development of a nine-storey boutique hotel ahead of the 2032 Olympics.
Developer Artemus Group will lodge a development application to transform the Howard Smith Wharves precinct in an effort to showcase the river city at its best before the area comes under a global spotlight.
The proposal includes plans to replace the existing Felons Barrel Hall with a nine-storey, 77- bedroom hotel with retail and a theatre hall at ground level.
Artemus Group Founder and Director Adam Flaskas said the proposal would redefine the city’s waterfront experience.
“Positioned along the iconic Brisbane River, the precinct is already a thriving destination,” Mr Flaskas said.
“We believe this next chapter at Howard Smith Wharves will play a central role in the Brisbane 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, where the river is our stage to showcase Brisbane and Queensland to the world.”
“Our goal is to deliver something truly world-class for Brisbane; a destination that celebrates our city’s heritage, landscape and natural beauty.
“We are creating a hospitality and tourism gateway that will connect locals and visitors to some of Brisbane’s best experiences including exceptional dining and access to the world’s largest, pristine sand islands.”
Two new cliff lifts will be built as well as additional open spaces for the public.
While the beloved Felons’ Brewing Co will remain at the site, other popular restaurants, including Chia Papi, will be converted into a new bar and dining pavilion as part of the proposal.
