Brisbane’s Felons Barrel Hall will close under a proposal to upgrade the riverfront Howard Smith Wharves precinct, with developers wanting to replace the popular drinking spot with a boutique hotel.
Just six years after the CBD precinct was opened as a major food and dining hub, Artemus Group wants to rebuild it bigger and better.
Felons Barrel Hall, a venue that hosts live music and entertainment, will make way for the 77-room hotel, which also includes retail and entertainment areas.
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Felons’ presence will remain at the site, with its brewery Felons Brewing Co incorporated into the design.
Artemus also wants to put in a pool that hangs over the river, as part of a new food and drink area, as well as new public spaces with a focus on greenery.
The company believes the precinct will help sell Brisbane to the world for the 2032 Olympics.
“Positioned along the iconic Brisbane River, the precinct is already a thriving destination,” Artemus director Adam 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.”
The company will submit its plans to the Queensland government in a development application.
Howard Smith Wharves sits alongside the new Star casino at Queen’s Wharf and Eagle St pier, currently being redeveloped, as Brisbane’s major CBD food and beverage hubs.