Brisbane Airport set to expand retail footprint to include dedicated car retail zone
CAR retailing in Queensland is set for a major overhaul as Brisbane Airport looks to attract car dealers to a new precinct that includes a test track within a purpose-built 50-hectare facility.
The Brisbane Airport Corporation (BAC) – part of the airport’s property management arm (BNE Property) portfolio for non-aviation development – plans to bring together dealers from across the Brisbane area to create the “all- encompassing automotive precinct” that will include dealerships, servicing, related retail and offices in the one location.
The BAC is seeking expressions of interest within the next two months for a joint-venture partner for the development, with a completion timeframe over the next three years once a suitable partner comes on board.
Included is a test track designed by former V8 Supercar driver Mark Skaife, who said the track helps take a dedicated automotive retail area adjacent to a city airport (like Melbourne’s Essendon Fields) to another level.
“Having the ability to test drive a new vehicle along a track is such a unique concept and something I am really excited to be a part of,” he said.
“Being able to drive a car straight from the showroom onto a purpose built test track without having to wait at traffic lights and sit in congestion is fantastic – you don’t even have to be a car fanatic to appreciate that,” he said.
Mr Skaife said the test track has potential for a variety of other uses, with the plans also allowing for an offroad track for the site.
“The test track offers a safe environment for driver training and education programs and can also be used for events such as car launches and car club activities.”
“The precinct has huge potential for a range of uses, including a 4WD test track earmarked for stage two of the concept,” he said.