Developer announced to transform former Birchalls site
Published on 11 July 2025
The City of Launceston is pleased to announce that local S. Group and Tas City Building Consortium has been selected as the preferred partner developer for the landmark former Birchalls building in Brisbane Street Mall.
Following a competitive Request for Proposals process that attracted high-quality submissions, S. Group and Tas City Building's proposal stood out for its bold, community-focused vision to transform the site into a mixed-use precinct featuring retail and residential spaces, public amenities, and a new pedestrian link connecting the Mall with Paterson Street Central Car Park.
Mayor Matthew Garwood said the selection of a preferred developer marked a significant milestone in the ongoing revitalisation of Launceston’s city centre.
"This is a serious and exciting step forward for our city," Mayor Garwood said.
"The Birchalls building is one of the most iconic locations in Launceston, and honestly, our community has been crying out to see it brought back to life."
"The S. Group and Tas City Building Consortium’s proposal offers a smart and sensitive reimagining of this space, one that strengthens our retail core, creates new inner-city housing options, and delivers public benefits like improved pedestrian access and urban design.
"This decision of Council is a clear investment in our commitments, one where we put our words into action. The Council has long advocated for increased activation within the CBD, and in particular within the Brisbane Street Mall."
"This partnership with the S. Group and Tas City Building Consortium is a reflection of the Council making informed decisions based on what we have heard from our community and where we believe the best long-term public value can be delivered.
"It promises to unlock the site's potential, contributing to local housing supply, boosting economic activity, and enhancing the amenity of one of Launceston’s most recognisable addresses.
"Yes, it’s taken time, resources, and a whole lot of work from staff and Councillors to get here but we’ve stepped in and stayed the course, because delivering something great for this site has always been the goal.
"Today’s announcement shows that commitment has paid off."
This decision also supports and accelerates the Council’s newly adopted Strategic Plan, and illustrates its commitment to delivering on its key objectives — particularly around creating a vibrant and resilient city centre, fostering urban renewal, and supporting well-designed housing growth.
The redevelopment of the Birchalls site exemplifies the kind of place-based investment and community-focused development that will help shape Launceston as a thriving, liveable regional capital into the future.
Negotiations will now commence on a term sheet between Council and the S. Group and Tas City Building Consortium to guide the next stages of the project.
Further details will be shared with the community as the proposed development progresses.
"We’re looking forward to working closely with the S. Group Consortium to bring this vision to life — and to sharing this journey with our community every step of the way," Mayor Garwood said.