City of Launceston alderman have agreed to support a plan, requesting a $9 million interest-free loan from the state government, to construct 300 public car park spaces on the CH Smith site.
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The development will work hand-in-hand with work being planned by Launceston businessman Errol Stewart and architect Scott Curran.
The council will enter into arrangements with the developers trading as Northern Outlet Developments Pty Ltd, and the CH Smith title will be sub-divided for two independent projects.
The issue of a lack of ratepayer consultation was discussed during public questions time, but the questions were taken on notice.
The council went into a closed session to discuss the CH Smith site about 1.40pm and moved back into open session at 2pm.
The motion was moved by Alderman Robin McKendrick and seconded by deputy mayor Rob Soward.
“People should be extremely excited that something is going to happen at the CH Smith site... it's been like that for 25 years,” he said.
“This is an opportunity, a three-way partnerhsip that I believe will be a great partnerhsip."
Alderman Soward said what was most postive was that the development would produce revenue.
“The fact that we are seeking the interest free advance is very important ... that will enable us to get the show on the round with something so important,” he said.