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Hobart City Council greenlights innovative development

12 April 2024

Barrack Street artist impression.png

In a move set to redefine the architectural landscape of Macquarie Street, the Hobart City Council Planning Committee has given the green light to an ambitious development proposal at 20 Barrack Street.


At a glance

  • The Hobart City Council Planning Committee has approved a major development for 20 Barrack Street, Hobart, the site of the former Motors showroom.
  • The $24 million proposal includes 56 apartments and commercial space.
  • The architects of this proposal is the company behind Pumphouse Point, Brooke Street Pier, and the Hedberg Centre.

The $24 million project, which encompasses subdivision, partial demolition, and the construction of a mixed-use building, marks yet another milestone in the city's urban evolution.

The brainchild of Macquarie Street Investments Pty Ltd, the development promises to marry innovation with functionality, offering a dynamic blend of residential, commercial, and culinary spaces.

Upon completion, the site will feature 56 luxurious apartments, complemented by vibrant commercial establishments at ground level.

In a statement provided by Macquarie Street Investments Pty Ltd, directors Marcus Birrell and Paul Huggins expressed gratitude for the approval, envisioning the project as a future landmark for the city.

"This could not be achieved without the wonderful cooperation and commitment of the City of Hobart councillors, statutory planners, and our team of expert consultants," remarked the directors.

Hobart City Council Planning Committee Portfolio Chair, Cr Mike Dutta, said the project was a testament to the city's progressive spirit.

"This development adds to the exciting evolution of Hobart," Cr Dutta said.

"With a blend of residential, commercial, and culinary offerings, this project not only reshapes the city's skyline but also enriches its tapestry of urban life."

The proposed design, crafted by Irene Inc Planning and Urban Design, the company behind iconic landmarks such as Pumphouse Point, Brooke Street Pier, and the Hedberg Centre, underscores a commitment to architectural excellence.

The mixed-use building will span six storeys, exuding a contemporary aesthetic while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding urban fabric. Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds echoed Cr Dutta's sentiments, emphasising the council's steadfast dedication to fostering sustainable urban development.

"Since April 1, 2023, the City of Hobart has processed 679 planning applications, refusing only 12," Cr Reynolds said.

“That is a 98.86 per cent successful dwelling application approval rate, showing Hobart is a city that embraces well-designed, medium density residential developments.

"This approval rate underscores our city's embrace of well-designed, medium-density residential developments."

As construction gears up to commence, anticipation is high for the transformation of 20 Barrack Street into a vibrant hub that seamlessly blends heritage with innovation.

With each brick laid and each beam raised, Hobart's urban landscape continues to evolve, setting the stage for a dynamic future where community and commerce thrive together.

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