Salisbury: From Industrial Estate to Revitalised Suburb

Chrome Street Fiesta, Salisbury
Salisbury Homes Photo credit: Chrome Street Fiesta Inc/Facebook

Located just 10 km from the CBD, Salisbury nowadays is proving to be more than just the industrial estate that it used to be. Trendy, newly opened cafes, studios, and community events such as street parties, are giving the neighbourhood a hip and creative vibe, attracting more people into the area.

With easy access to transport facilities such as the railway station, and the substantial number of open spaces, local shops, and well-established schools, Salisbury has become a worthwhile option for those looking for affordable, yet strategic, housing.

A Glimpse of Salisbury’s History

Salisbury Munition Factory
Rocklea Ammunition Factory Photo credit: ozatwar.com

Brisbane, specifically Salisbury, played an important role during the Second World War.

Given Salisbury’s expansive, rural and remote location, a large munition factory, named Rocklea Ammunition, was built along the area of Compo Road, currently named Evans Road, during the 1940s. Large-engine test cells were also placed within the vicinity of Compo Road.

Evidence of munition works in Salisbury can be seen at present time in the suburb’s street names, such as Assembly, Bearing, and Lathe Streets.

By 1943-1944, the Rocklea Ammunition factory had been terminated and its buildings were soon taken over by different groups, converting the entire estate into a base workshop, tank workshop, and an engine refurbish site.

From 1955-1959, series of road structures and extensions were made in order to connect Orange Grove Road, Lillian Avenue, and Evans Road all together. Salisbury was then linked to Tarragindi by September of 1959 via Toohey Road.

In these post-war years, Salisbury’s short distance from Brisbane safeguarded its urban settlement. What was once an industrial wilderness soon became a residential development site given its speedy growth from 1960s onwards.

Year Population
1911 84
1921 564
1976 6537

Source: queenslandplaces.com.au

Present Day Salisbury

A large number of families have been recently seeking to make Salisbury their new home.

Salisbury Demand Market
Photo credit: realestate.com.au

 


Read: Tarragindi Median House Price Rises to $777,000 Amidst Strong Demand


 

With more people dwelling into the neighbourhood, a few residents have opened up their own small enterprises in the area for a more sustainable living.

Different small businesses are now well-established in Salisbury, including coffee shops, brewery, organic restaurants and diners, art galleries, dance and yoga studios, and bookstores.

Salisbury
Salisbury receives an 8/10 rating on Lifestyle
Photo credit: microburbs.com.au

 

These businesses in town have further led the owners to assert themselves into fostering a sense of community amongst the people of Salisbury.

Salisbury Chrome Street Fiesta
Different kiosks geared up for Salisbury’s annual Chrome Street Fiesta.
Photo credit: Reload Espresso Bar/ Facebook

Gentrification has brought a newer, and more current “vibe” to the neighbourhood, further driving its growth. In what can be perceived as an attempt by residents to strike a balance between work and family living, today’s Salisbury has evolved to include trendier places where people can grow, enjoy, and feel a sense of belongingness.

 



 

Salisbury Compo Road
Aerial view of former Rocklea Ammunition Factory in Compo Road (Evans Road) in 1946
Photo credit: ozatwar.com
Salisbury Evans Road
Present day satellite view of Evans Road, showcasing Salisbury as a growing and revitalised suburb. Photo credit: Google Maps / google.com/maps