Brisbane Auto Mall: $1 billion new car dealer project axed

Plans for a massive new car dealer precinct near Brisbane have been shelved.

Announced in 2015, the Auto Mall dealer precinct was set to feature a 2.4km test track designed by V8 Supercars legend Mark Skaife, a conference space, and a viewing deck were also planned.

Brisbane Airport Corporation and AP Eagers – Australia’s largest dealer group, which had planned to lease a chunk of the precinct’s dealership space – this week released a joint statement explaining why the plan was being pulled.

“Brisbane Airport Corporation and Eagers Automotive have worked closely on the development of a multi-purpose automotive retail and experience precinct at Brisbane Airport,” the pair said.

“A mutual decision has been made to not proceed with the Auto Mall project at Brisbane Airport.

“This decision has been driven by a number of factors, including the economics of a performance track in a changing world.

“Both parties remain open to exploring future opportunities at Brisbane Airport.”

It’s not clear exactly how much has been spent on developing the precinct since 2015, nor what will replace it.

“Brisbane Airport Corporation is committed to continuing to develop a multi-purpose precinct which locals and visitors can enjoy in the years to come,” said Martin Ryan, executive general manager commercial at Brisbane Airport Corporation.

“This site is three times larger than South Bank Parklands, so it is important for us to take the time to plan this area right.”