The $315 million upgrade of Queensland’s busiest public transport station should not simply be functional and bland, but rather an impressive statement piece, a conference has heard.

Brisbane City Council’s public and active transport chairman Adrian Schrinner was part of an industry briefing for the Brisbane Metro on Wednesday, which was attended by more than 200 leaders from local and international companies.

Concept images for the new Metro Cultural Centre station at South Brisbane, as part of the council's Brisbane Metro plans. Credit:Brisbane City Council

The expression of interest for several parts of the $944 million project are now open, including for the construction of the underground station at the Cultural Centre, which is estimated to cost about 33 per cent of the total cost of the project, or $315 million.

“This project needs your innovation and needs your input,” Cr Schrinner told the industry briefing.