News from tonight’s Hobart City Council meeting 23 February 2026
Published on 24 February 2026
Dog Management Policy Review
See separate media release.
MacPoint Northern Access Road – Submission
The City of Hobart has finalised its submission to the Tasmanian Government on the Macquarie Point Northern Access Road Concept Design Assessment, outlining priorities to protect community access, local heritage and the valued waterfront landscape while supporting a well‑connected transport network. The submission reinforces the importance of integrating the project with public and active transport, ensuring high‑quality interfaces with future residential areas and foreshore spaces, and managing event and traffic impacts on City assets. The City will publish the submission upon lodgement and continue working with the State Government through the detailed design and delivery phases to advocate for long‑term community outcomes.
12-Month Review – Argyle/Campbell streets bike lanes
A 12-month review of the Argyle and Campbell Street bike lanes confirms the project is performing well and should transition to ongoing operation. The corridor now supports more than 250 bike trips each weekday, with no recorded bicycle crashes and no identifiable increase in vehicle crashes or congestion. Road users have largely adapted to the layout, with good compliance in parking bays and minimal issues with infrastructure. Traffic volumes remain consistent with preinstallation levels, and the upgraded signals are functioning effectively. Further planning will occur around the Royal Hobart Hospital precinct, alongside continued work to secure suitable clearway towing arrangements.
West Hobart Proposed 40km/h Area Wide Speed Limit
Preparation will now begin on a submission to the Transport Commission seeking approval for a 40km/h area-wide speed limit across West Hobart. Community engagement during the West Hobart Local Area Mobility Plan showed strong support for safer, more walkable streets, and the proposal aligns with the Hobart Transport Strategy and recent statewide feedback favouring lower urban speed limits. A 40km/h area is expected to improve safety for people walking and riding, support access to six local schools, and enhance neighbourhood amenity. Officers will now finalise the required documentation and develop a communication strategy outlining the proposed boundary of the reduced speed area.
Mount Nelson Local Area Mobility Plan
The Mount Nelson Local Area Mobility Plan has been finalised following extensive community engagement, identifying key opportunities to create a safer, more connected environment for walking and cycling. The plan outlines actions to improve intersections and crossings, upgrade footpaths, calm traffic and expand track and trail links. Community feedback showed strong support for safer speeds and better pedestrian facilities, particularly along Nelson Road. The plan proposes reduced speed limits across Mount Nelson and new infrastructure to support safer, more comfortable active travel. Recommended projects will now be considered for future funding, helping foster a healthier, more accessible neighbourhood.
Southern Tasmania Regional Land Use Strategy
A submission will be lodged on the draft Southern Tasmania Regional Land Use Strategy, setting out key refinements needed to ensure the region’s 25-year planning framework effectively supports Hobart’s role as the State’s metropolitan centre. The submission calls for stronger integration of land use, transport and infrastructure planning, clearer mechanisms to support well located housing, improved metropolitan coordination on climate resilience, and more robust governance and monitoring arrangements. These refinements are essential to delivering sustainable growth, reducing car dependency and supporting infill development. The submission will be published on the City’s website when lodged.
Cornelian Bay Track Management
Work will now begin to relocate the rail crossing on the Cornelian Bay Track about 300 metres north, creating a direct link to the City managed section of track and restoring safe through access along the foreshore. This follows detailed assessments and stakeholder engagement after the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens closed a damaged 100 metre water edge section due to erosion and safety risks. The recommended solution maintains access for the community at the lowest cost, avoids further impacts on a highly eroding shoreline, and aligns with long term sustainability principles. The project will be funded through the capital works contingency. Council has authorised the CEO to negotiate with the RBTG on a potential land transfer and report back in due course.
Second-Generation Rodenticides Notice of Motion – Cr Bill Harvey
Action will be taken to advocate for a statewide reduction in the use of second-generation rodenticides, which pose significant risks to birds of prey and other wildlife. A motion will be submitted to the Local Government Association of Tasmania encouraging all councils to cease their use and to work with their communities to promote safer alternatives. A letter will also be sent to the Federal Minister seeking a response on a national ban. In addition, a local awareness campaign will be launched to encourage businesses to avoid second-generation rodenticides and support more environmentally responsible pest management.