Brisbane City Council has announced that Kangaroo Point Bridge, which will link Kangaroo Point to the CBD, making it easier to walk or ride between Kangaroo Point, the eastern suburbs and the CBD, will be open to the public on December 15.
More than just a bridge, the project has been planned as a lasting attraction for both residents and visitors, especially during the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and a way to honor and highlight Brisbane’s identity as a river city.
Some of its key features include a river crossing between the corner of Alice Street and Edward Street in the CBD, and Scott Street at Kangaroo Point, a minimalist design that will complement the city’s skyline, and dedicated cycle and pedestrian paths.
As part of the efforts to make Kangaroo Point Bridge into a destination in itself and to maximise Brisbanites’ enjoyment and wellbeing, viewing platforms and rest nodes will provide people with panoramic views of the CBD skyline, Kangaroo Point cliffs, City Botanic Gardens and the Story Bridge, giving the river the starring role it deserves.
And, in order to protect the river and its surroundings, there are a number of sustainable elements in the bridge’s designs, such as solar panels to help power the night-time lighting, rain gardens at C.T. White Park to slow stormwater run-off, and extensive use of native plants in the landscaping.
Dining under the Bridge
In addition to encouraging users to stop and take in the views, the Kangaroo Point Bridge will also include two unique riverside dining venues, including an above-water restaurant and bar on the bridge, and a new riverside café at the city landing.
Operated by Tassis Group (which currently operates local favourites including Massimo Restaurant and Bar, Yamas and OPA Bar + Mezze), both Stilts Dining and Mulga Bill’s will be bound to keep locals and visitors coming back for more.
The former will be elevated on stilts, as its name indicates, like a Queenslander home, above the bridge deck, offering diners jaw-dropping views all around. It will provide a fine dining experience and its menu will focus on local steak and seafood.
On the other hand, Mulga Bill’s, located at the city landing and entrance to the Bridge draws inspiration from Banjo Paterson’s poem and will have a more casual atmosphere, serving pizza, grab ‘n go options and coffee, plus the option of picnic boxes to take into the surrounding parklands and public spaces.