The demolition of a house at St Georges Square in Launceston has been approved by the council, but not before rigorous discussion.
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A contentious red brick wall, formerly located on the 14-16 St Georges Square site, will have to be rebuilt before the demolition can occur.
James Stewart, a town planner representing the property owner, said he agreed with and supported the recommendation. However, he objected to having to build the wall before the demolition occurred.
He said there was a chance the wall could be damaged.
But the councillors said there was no motivation for the wall to be rebuilt if it wasn't done before the house was demolished.
Councillors agreed there was plenty of space to demolish the house from a different access point on the property.
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A number of residents voiced concerns about the effect the demolition would have on the roots of two heritage-listed neighbouring sequoia trees.
Councillors also believe the conditions put on the demolition approval, such as having an arborist on site, would alleviate their concerns. However, if damage did occur to the trees, it would then become a neighbourhood negotiation.
Councillor Janie Finlay said with the path that has been taken to get to their point, that it was not unreasonable to expect the fence to be rebuilt first.
Cr Finlay also questioned if the trees would be safe.
"The wall can be rebuilt, trees can't be replanted," she said.
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Deputy mayor Danny Gibson said with nearly 40 representations, it was one of the largest he'd had to consider since being elected.
"The conditions, are the conditions. There is no doing your own thing and then seeking forgiveness," he said.
Councillor Nick Daking said the trees are some of the most recognisable in the area.
"They have amazingly passionate protectors that wish to ensure these trees out grow all of us," he said.
The council said a bond had been offered to ensure the fence was rebuilt, but it was not necessary if the conditions were approved.
Councillor Tim Walker was the only one not support the development application because he was not confident the wall would be rebuilt like-for-like.
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