Launceston approves $210m worth of development

Published on 06 July 2018

The City of Launceston approved 658 planning applications with a total value of $209.6m in the 2017-18 financial year.

This follows the approval of 594 planning applications worth $112.4m in the 2016-17 financial year, representing a 60.3% increase in the value of approvals year-on-year as well as a 10.2% increase in the number of approvals.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said the figures highlighted increased confidence in the Northern Tasmanian economy.

"The approvals by the City of Launceston in the past financial year comprise a range of public and private developments across the municipality," Mayor van Zetten said.

"Whether it's mum and dad builders or experienced property developers with major projects, there's been activity right across the board. Through its approval processes the City of Launceston has been clear with investors and developers of all kinds that sensible, quality projects are welcomed in Launceston.

"Of course, along with these approvals, the Council is progressing a number of projects of its own, including the redevelopments of the Brisbane St Mall and Civic Square, the construction of the new Seaport pedestrian and cycle bridge, and the development of the new 'Riverbend Park'.

"We've also partnered with private developers and the State Government to end the stalemate on the C.H. Smith site, while working to ensure an expanded and sustainable contemporary Northern Tasmanian University campus.

"On top of this we have the Launceston City Deal which comprises a range of projects, including those arising from the Tamar Estuary River Health Action Plan, which examines both improvements to catchment health as well as improvements to the city's combined sewerage and stormwater drainage infrastructure.

"With so many projects underway Launceston is undergoing a transformation, and I believe it's one that will benefit residents into the future."