Inner-city property developments are gradually changing the face of Launceston’s CBD, according to one of the city’s leading construction companies.
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Tas City Building is currently constructing 31 CBD apartments over nine locations, including several penthouses and shop-top living developments.
Among the 31 apartments includes an 18-apartment development on top of Finance Brokers of Tasmania in York House.
Tas City Building director Steve Simeone said demand for inner-city living options had dramatically increased over the past year.
“There’s so much underutilised room in the CBD area and not everyone wants to have that grassy area out in the suburbs anymore,” he said
“These sort of developments will really change the city and bring Launceston into a different style of city than to Hobart or anywhere else.
“I’m really excited to see how it goes over the next 10 or so years.”
Numerous shop-top apartments are being built on Elizabeth Street, Brisbane Street and George Street as a part of Tas City Building’s current works.
Increasing the number of people and families living permanently in the city will increase the vibrancy in the city.
- Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Neil Grose
Launceston Chamber of Commerce executive officer Neil Grose said the chamber had long pushed for increased housing options in the city, particularly in empty spaces above retail shops.
“Exciting Launceston entrepreneurs such as Steve Simeone are showing the way forward for the city by working hard to change Launceston in a very positive way,” Mr Grose said.
“Increasing the number of people and families living permanently in the city will increase the vibrancy in the city, which in turn grows the economy and social cohesion in inner Launceston.”
Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten praised Mr Simeone’s work.
“One of the reasons we embarked on the Launceston City Heart Project in 2014 was to enhance the amenity of our inner city public spaces,” he said.
“We're overseeing a number of initiatives aimed at streamlining the regulatory processes involved.”