News from Council Meeting - 21 June 2021
Published on 21 June 2021
Annual Plan endorsed
The Hobart City Council has endorsed the organisation’s Annual Plan for 2021-22, featuring more than 100 actions across all operational areas.
The Annual Plan aligns strongly with the Capital City Strategic Plan 2019-29 and the principles of the Community vision.
Key priorities for 2021-22 include the design and installation of the first stage of the Elizabeth Street – Midtown Retail Precinct upgrade, completion of parking and cycling improvements at the Regatta Grounds; improvements to the North Hobart retail and entertainment precinct based on community and stakeholder input; celebration of the 40th year of the Christmas Pageant and 50th year of Salamanca Market; and the successful transition of the Taste of Tasmania into a new ownership model.
New amenities for Tolmans Hill park
Two new barbecue shelters and a toilet block will be installed at the Tolmans Hill Playground on Old Proctors Road.
The project includes picnic tables and seating, and two barbecues, along with a pathway and access ramps. Four toilets, including an accessible toilet, will also be constructed. An accessible car space will be included in the existing carpark.
The project is funded through the federal government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Support for housing options
The City of Hobart will investigate ways to provide advice to property owners around construction of additional homes on larger residential properties to increase housing options.
The City will identify suitable properties where the number of homes could be increased under current planning requirements.
In moving the motion, Deputy Lord Mayor Helen Burnet said there was an opportunity to increase housing density in some areas without sub-dividing land.
“The current housing shortage provides Council with good reason to be proactive in finding more solutions, by both pointing out what is possible, and where the planning schemes limit such options,” Cr Burnet said.
“Some properties, depending on their zone may lend themselves to having greater numbers of dwellings on the site. This could be floors or sections of a free-standing house that may be strata titled, or could have other freestanding dwellings such as granny flats built on the property.”
Residential developments approved
Two city developments proposing a combined 65 new residential units have been approved by Council.
A 45-unit development is proposed for Macquarie St includes a new eight-storey building comprising two basement levels with parking, a lower ground level and five levels above ground, with a maximum height of 20.7m.
A separate development on Argyle Street proposes a six-story building measuring 19.6m in height and featuring 20 residential units and car parking.
In approving the development, the Council added a condition that would increase the size of balconies adjoining the units.
Monthly building and planning statistics
During the month of May, 55 building permits were issued for projects with a combined estimated value of more than $19 million.
This included 10 new dwellings and a major internal refurbishment at 85-99 Collins Street worth nearly $8.5 million. In the 12 months ending May 2021, a total 686 building permits were issued to the value of $215 million.
Also during May, 90 new planning approvals were granted, with a total value of more than $14 million, contributing to a 12-month total of 836 planning approvals worth $322 million.
More trees for Mount Stuart
Suitable species and locations for street trees will be investigated for Rupert Street, Mount Stuart, in response to a petition from residents.
Any impact on traffic safety and parking will be considered in determining the number and location of any new plantings.