Council chair Brett Torossi said the development was a standout example of how the adaptive reuse of heritage could enhance a project and help to achieve a contemporary design solution.

“This is a good example of how our works guidelines and the free pre-lodgement advice offered to property owners and developers by Heritage Tasmania can be used to help to facilitate development, and at the same time ensure a place’s heritage values are recognised,” she said. 

Ms Torossi congratulated developers Errol Stewart and Scott Curran for preparing such a considered proposal, which was approved at the Heritage Council’s meeting on December 21.

“The CH Smith site is an interesting and important site that reflects Launceston’s role as an early port city. It contains one of Launceston's earliest buildings, an 1830s warehouse, and a fine collection of buildings that face Charles Street and represent a number of important architectural eras,” she said.

Her sentiments were echoed by Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Jan Davis who said the development would be a symbol the North is open for business and ready for investment.

“The C.H. Smith site has been abandoned and derelict for more than 20 years, leaving an eyesore where there should be something that reflects the city’s vibrancy and spirit,” she said.

Property Council of Australia’s Brian Wightman said the reactivation of the site was critical because it formed the gateway to the central business district.

He said he could not see a genuine reason why anyone opposing the project would appeal the Launceston City Council’s decision.

“The investors have been clear in their willingness to work with the Tasmanian Heritage Council. Therefore, it is extremely difficult to think of a legitimate argument that would stifle or delay this much needed development,” he said.

“The City of Launceston has a unique opportunity to leverage further property investment off the back of the City Deal and the development of the C.H. Smith site is the perfect place to start.”

Treasurer Peter Gutwein reiterated the state government’s commitment to working with the council and the developers to see the project come to fruition.

“This site has been a blight on the cityscape of Launceston for far too long and this development is long overdue,” he said. The council will use a $9 million interest-free government loan towards its portion of the development.

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