Hobart has a new plan to manage increasing population growth without compromising what makes the city liveable and unique.
Developed by the City of Hobart, in partnership with the Tasmanian Government along with the community, the draft Central Hobart Plan is the first of its kind in Tasmania.
Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said the draft plan sets out a vision for sustainable growth in the heart of Hobart.
The draft plan covers the 64 city blocks bounded by Davey Street to the south, Brooker Avenue to the east, Burnett Street to the north, and Murray Street, Harrington Street, Melville Street and Molle Street to the West.
"In recent years Hobart has experienced steady population growth," Cr Reynolds said.
"Looking to the future, population projections for Greater Hobart anticipate an influx of 47,000 people in the next decade.
"Once it's finalised this plan will encourage more homes being built in Central Hobart while maintaining the heritage and cultural identity.
"The plan will use planning rules and guidelines to encourage high quality, medium density housing.
"Importantly the plan also identifies the infrastructure, open space, transport and commercial opportunities required to meet the needs of a growing residential population and to support Hobart as the region's largest employment centre and tourist destination.
"As the city grows and develops, we need to ensure that this happens in a way that's in the public interest.
"As city managers we want to ensure central Hobart develops in a way that respects our heritage and also encourages the very best innovative ideas and designs for a more sustainable future."
Deputy Lord Mayor and Future Hobart Portfolio Chair Helen Burnet said the draft plan would help provide certainty for the community and developers regarding the priorities for Central Hobart.
"Currently there is no maximum height limit for development in Central Hobart included in the Planning scheme," Cr Burnet said.
"The Urban Design Framework within the draft plan provides more certainty about maximum building heights, provides guidance on built form, acknowledges the importance of view lines and heritage, and allows for Hobart's future growth needs.
"We have listened to the community through a detailed engagement process to get to this point and I encourage everyone to review the draft plan and provide feedback." Public consultation on the draft Central Hobart Plan closes 30 April.
The community are invited to provide feedback online via the City of Hobart Your Say website and in person at a pop-up info hub:
• Thursday 6 April, Elizabeth Street Mall.
• Sunday 23 April, Farm Gate Market.
A live streamed panel discussion and online Q&A session will provide an opportunity for the community to find out more about the draft plan and ask questions.
What: The Future Hobart: City Shaping online talk
When: Tuesday 18 April, 5.30pm-7.30pm
How to access: A link to the event will be provided on the Central Hobart Plan Your Say page here.
