University of Queensland researchers are steaming ahead with a project designed to optimise the way Brisbane’s railway network can be better utilised for the community.
UQ architectural students, headed by Faculty of Engineering, Physical Sciences and Architecture (EPSA) lecturer Kathi Holt-Damant, are working with America’s Columbia University and QR to examine development around Brisbane’s railway corridor.
The results of an intensive workshop between postgraduate students from both institutions will be presented at a public forum, Brisbane Discussion: 20 questions, at Brisbane Customs House on Tuesday, February 10 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm.
During the forum researchers will discuss a range of issues relating to the south-eastern rail corridor with a panel of experts, including representatives of UQ, QR, Queensland Transport and Brisbane City Council.
A closed presentation of future development design ideas by UQ and Columbia University researchers will precede the public forum. Their cutting edge research uses multi-media and computer-aided design, borrowing techniques used in cinematography to convey ideas through sequential images.
Fourth-year UQ architectural students conducted a pilot study in 2003 that included the land on either side of the railway corridor from Roma Street Station to Toowong.
Eight UQ Master of Philosophy (design) students are collaborating with 12 post-professional Master of Urban Design students from Columbia University.
“Our primary interest is in the quality of these urban and architectural environments, particularly the impact of development on the local communities,” said Ms Holt-Damant.
“Brisbane’s railway corridors could be extraordinary spaces similar to the Brisbane River, which is also a very large corridor.
She said the final design ideas emerging from the project would offer better pedestrian access and community amenities without the loss of open public space.
“In open space terms the railway corridor should be considered one of our most important linear green spaces as well as an efficient system of transportation.”
Ms Holt-Damant said the research, the result of a UQ New Staff Start-up Grant, had been sponsored by QR. Columbia University Books will publish a book based on the collaborative design research.
For photos and images, contact UQ Photo Library Coordinator Diana Lilley (telephone 07 3365 2753, email d.lilley@uq.edu.au).
Media: For more information, contact Kathi Holt-Damant (telephone 3365 4130, Mobile 0417 032 468, email k.holtdamant@uq.edu.au) or Chris Saxby at UQ Communications (telephone 07 3365 2479, email c.saxby@uq.edu.au).
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