West End is an area of striking contrasts—historic charm meets rapid urban growth, all set against the backdrop of one undeniable reality: it is a floodplain. Yet, despite its vulnerability, the demand for inner-city living continues to fuel high-rise developments in the area.
Read: West End’s Skyline Evolves: Inside the Suburb’s Latest Construction Boom
Former Olympian and managing director of renowned firm Stockwell, Mark Stockwell, acknowledged that while West End’s flood risks are significant, innovative urban planning and resilient design can make living in the area safer.
He emphasised the importance of recognising Brisbane’s floodplain status and implementing strategic plans to ensure new buildings can withstand potential flooding. Mr Stockwell believes developers are now making smarter and safer choices when constructing in flood-prone areas.
Learning from the Past, Building for the Future
West End has been hit hard by past floods, particularly in 2011 and 2022, when the Brisbane River surged into streets and homes. Mr Stockwell himself has had to retrofit older buildings, adding floodgates and relocating critical infrastructure like transformers and substations to higher ground.
New high-rise developments in the area are incorporating lessons learned from these disasters. Three 50-storey skyscrapers have been proposed on the site of an old concrete factory on notorious Nott Street.
The plans include 370 residential units built above the highest recorded Brisbane River flood level, factoring in climate change projections for the next 75 years. The design also reserves 75 per cent of the site as green space, which can absorb excess water during extreme weather events.
Retail spaces on the ground floors of these buildings are being designed for resilience. Unlike traditional units, businesses such as coffee shops and dog groomers occupy these lower levels, with power and water connections placed high to allow for quick evacuation before floodwaters arrive. Once the water recedes, the spaces can be easily hosed down and reopened.
Mr Stockwell noted that infrastructure changes have been necessary, including relocating transformers and substations from basements to higher levels and securing sewer lids to prevent backups.
The Height Advantage
One major shift in development thinking is the move to elevate residential units. Mr Stockwell observes that while older buildings once had residences starting at street level, today’s designs place the first living floors at what would have been the third storey in previous constructions. Essential utilities, like air-conditioning and power plants, are now positioned on rooftops instead of vulnerable basements.
A City-Wide Dilemma
Brisbane has plans for 10,000 additional homes in West End, catering to growing demand. Build-to-rent and luxury living options are at the heart of this expansion, particularly for young professionals seeking an urban lifestyle. However, the question remains: can the city balance housing needs with flood safety?
Developments must integrate flood safety measures, including floodgates, pumps, and real-time flood alerts, ensuring that residents are prepared for potential emergencies.
Read: Prime West End Riverfront Site Sold for $50M
A New Era of Flood-Resilient Living
Despite the risks, West End is evolving into a model for flood-conscious urban living. Developers like Mr Stockwell are pushing forward with projects designed to withstand Brisbane’s unpredictable climate, creating a city that adapts rather than retreats.
As skyscrapers rise above the floodplain, West End is proving that with the right planning, it is possible to live with water rather than fear it.
Published 6-March-2025
