The developer behind one of Hobart’s most exciting new projects believes it is not rocket science in getting a major development approved.
Techne Invest’s impressive $40 million 12-storey, 51m high commercial development for the former Spotlight location on the corner of Harrington and Liverpool Street received unanimous support at the 31 July Hobart City Council Planning Committee meeting.
Techne Invest director Matt O’Halloran said it was hoped work would begin in February 2025.
He had a simple message for those wishing to do the same – meet early and meet often with planners.
“We embedded the principles of the Central Hobart Plan into our concept designs then embarked on a thoroughly collaborative process with Hobart City Council planners and the Urban Design Advisory Panel,” Mr O’Halloran said.
“The Council planning review of our application has been thorough.
“Our design process with Council has been robust, open and collaborative.
“Early and regular engagement has certainly helped Council planners to guide us and form a thorough report and recommendation to the Planning Committee which was reflected in the unanimous endorsement.”
Former St Kilda Football Club champion Nick Riewoldt is also a director at Techne Invest and as a proud Tasmanian was thrilled to see this development get the green light.
“The planning approval is a great reflection of forward-thinking city shaping by both Hobart City and the Tasmanian Government,” Mr Riewoldt said.
The $40 million development includes the demolition of existing commercial buildings on site and the construction of a new, multi-level office building.
The approved plans detail a 12-storey building with a basement level, providing car parking for 28 vehicles.
The ground level will feature entry spaces, end-of-trip facilities for office workers including change rooms and bicycle parking, a potential retail tenancy, and a small café.
The remaining floors will be dedicated to office spaces.
Crucially, the development also includes community assets such as a landscaped pocket park, a new Hobart Rivulet walk and the creation of a pedestrian thoroughfare from Harrington Street to Centrepoint Shopping Centre.
Mr O’Halloran said this development would create much needed commercial space for the future.
The Property Council of Australia’s recent Office Market Report showed Hobart had the lowest commercial vacancy rate of any capital CBD in Australia.
Hobart’s office market has performed exceptionally well over the past 12 months, maintaining the lowest CBD vacancy rate in the country for the fourth year in a row at 2.8%.
“Hobart will require over 300,000 sqm of new office space over the next 15 years,” he said.
“Modern workplace needs, environmental credentials, and improved amenities are essential for government and corporate occupiers.
“Planning approval now provides greater certainty when dealing with leasing and attracting occupiers.”
This development follows on from Procreate’s move into the CBD at the top end of Collins Street, bringing major new developments at either end of Hobart, and a new building for 56 multiple dwellings, business and professional services, and food services for 20 Barrack Street, Hobart, which are now being advertised for.