Stop-work order issued on Broadway Hotel to prevent demolition
A third stop-work order has been issued on the Broadway Hotel to protect the heritage building from demolition.
It comes after the Brisbane City Council last week issued an enforcement notice to the owner of the Woolloongabba hotel following a state government engineering report that confirmed it was structurally sound and capable of being repaired.
Deputy Premier Jackie Trad said the extension of the stop-work order prevented any demolition of the Broadway and gave more time for work to be carried out to secure the building.
"This is the third stop order we have issued, and it ensures that the Broadway will not be demolished," she said.
"This beautiful heritage building has so much significance to our community and we are committed to ensuring it is protected.
"This stop order ensures the building is protected from demolition while the owner takes action to secure the building."
Ms Trad said the government was working with the council and the owner to find a solution so the Broadway could be restored to its former glory.
A fire ripped through the hotel in September 2018, following several fires, including in 2010, that left it standing derelict.
The Broadway Hotel has been listed on the Queensland Heritage Register since 1992.
Environment Minister Leeanne Enoch said under the Queensland Heritage Act, the owner of a heritage place is required to protect it from damage or deterioration caused by weather, fire, vandalism or insects.
"Last month, the Department of Environment and Science commissioned a site inspection of the Broadway Hotel by a structural engineer and expert contractors to assess and advise on a safe method for works to stabilise the hotel," she said.
"The inspection concluded that the overall building is overall structurally stable and is capable of repair."
The Broadway Hotel's owners had told the council they did not believe the building could be restored.
Following the council's enforcement notice, which has a deadline of April 30, the Broadway's owners are required to secure the building by installing a series of support system.
The Broadway Hotel was built in 1889-1890 and was designed as a landmark to attract local custom and as accommodation for country and family visitors.