Featured image credit: Mac Point Multipurpose Stadium
The Tasmanian Government is set to introduce legislation that aims to progress approvals for the Macquarie Point Urban Renewal Project which includes a multi-purpose stadium.
This will bypass the current planning process that has received significant criticism, notably from the Tasmanian Planning Commission (TPC).
Last month, the commission filed a report stating that the planned 23,000-seat stadium in Hobart would present an “overbearing” appearance as well as arguing that it risks the state’s credit rating.
The stadium is intended to be home to an Australian Football League (AFL) franchise as well as staging cricket matches and other events.
“It has become clear over the last week that the current process is undermining certainty and confidence in the future of the Precinct and the Tasmania Devils AFL club, impacting construction, recruitment and economic prospects,” said Tasmanian Premier, Jeremy Rockliff.
“We cannot afford not to deliver this project. And we cannot afford delays.
“This has been one of the most scrutinised projects in the state’s history. It will drive economic growth, deliver jobs, and, of course, mean Tasmania gets the teams that are rightfully ours.
“Every Member of the Parliament will have their say on this project – just as they would have through the POSS (Project of State Significance).
“It’s time we got on building it.”
The Macquarie Point Development Corporation submitted its application for the project back in September, as its price tag rose to A$775m (£371m/€431m/$489m).
The Tasmanian government has previously stated that its contribution would remain capped at A$375m, with the federal government committing A$240m and the AFL adding a further A$15m.
Business Minister Eric Abetz said the government had concerns about the TPC’s Integrated Assessment Report and reliance on an assessment prepared by economist Dr Nicholas Gruen.
Dr Gruen had reportedly met with anti-stadium campaigners prior to his formal appointment to conduct the economic review, which claimed that the project could cost more than A$1bn.
“It is the government’s view that Dr Gruen’s report has been tainted by an apprehension of bias, undermining the government’s confidence in the Integrated Assessment Report,” said Abetz.
“At the very least, there is a significant likelihood the concerns raised will lead to lengthy legal challenges regarding any final recommendation and significantly delay the final decision by the Minister to approve the stadium.”
Public representations on the commission’s report are set to continue until May 8, allowing Tasmanian residents to provide their feedback on the project.
A final integrated assessment report and recommendation report are then due by September 17.
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