The City of Launceston is looking to finalise the purchase of suitable land for the construction of the Northern Suburbs Community Hub, one of the key coalition funding promises from the federal election 12 months ago this week.
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The council was promised the full $15 million for the project just five days out from the election, and has since attempted to find a location for the hub which would incorporate an outdoor sports pitch, gym, climbing and cycling facilities, boxing area and offices, most likely in Mowbray.
Mayor Albert van Zetten said the council expected to be able to announce the suitability of a site in the coming months.
"To ensure that the needs and objectives of the northern suburbs are well understood and catered for in the construction of the facility, our intention is to undertake a comprehensive engagement program before we embark on detailed design work," he said.
"The timing of this exciting project will be dependent on the acquisition of a suitable site, and we hope to have more to say about this soon."
The coalition also promised the City of Launceston $10 million to transform Albert Hall into a 500-seat "cultural and convention centre", despite a feasibility study yet to be completed at that stage.
The study has since identified opportunities to upgrade the circa-1890s hall's kitchen and commercial facilities, seating, audio and visual systems and visitor amenities.
The upgrades are proposed to be carried out in the 2020-21 financial year.
Cr van Zetten said the specific works were yet to be finalised.
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"However, again, the council intends to undertake a consultation process with events stakeholders and Albert Hall user groups to determine which projects should be prioritised," he said.
"And again, we expect to have more to say on this project in due course."
The community hub and Albert Hall projects were subject to a funding bidding war between the coalition and Labor days out from the election, as both parties tried to win valuable votes in the ultra-marginal electorate of Bass.
This week, the council will vote on whether to bring forward $20 million in capital works, doubling the works program for 2020-21 as a stimulus for the construction sector.
Transportation works would be prioritised as part of the program.