City of Launceston council share federal election 'wishlist'

Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said the council had already been in discussions with the major parties over the projects.

"They are multigenerational infrastructure projects that will be critical in Launceston's journey towards becoming one of Australia's great regional cities," he said.

The City Heart Project is seeking $8.6 million in funding to provide a contemporary redevelopment of two key streets in Launceston's CBD - Paterson Street (between Charles and George streets) and St John Street (between Paterson and York streets).

READ MORE: No escape: victim-survivor wonders if fearing for life is preferable to homelessness

During the construction phase, it's estimated this project will generate 43 jobs with a total economic output of $21.2 million. Once operational, the project will support 66 new annual jobs with an increase of $6.4 million in output annually.

This initiative is seeking $5 million to develop strategic plans for a freight transfer hub on the fringe of Launceston's urban area, with the goal of reducing the amount of container-based freight travelling through central Launceston to access inner suburban depots.

READ MORE: Christian lobby begins phone polling effort aimed at Bridget Archer over religion bill stance

By reducing the reliance on this network for freight and through-traffic, the council hopes to ultimately improve the strategy for inner city living and the quality of life for residents. During the construction phase, the total project is estimated to generate 60 jobs with a total economic impact of $24 million.

The council is hoping to secure $3.1 million to replace the playing surface and wicket block at the North Tasmania Cricket Association Ground in Elphin.

This project would also include new drainage and irrigation systems, and a refurbishment of the change rooms, toilets and other ground facilities. During the construction phase, it's estimated this project will generate 12 jobs with a total economic output of $4 million.

This project is seeking $13.3 million to modernise the 1911-built heritage-listed Princess Theatre by improving safety, enhancing accessibility, and upgrading the theatre spaces to allow a greater range of touring shows.

READ MORE: Tasmania records 43rd COVID death since pandemic began

During the construction phase, it's estimated this project will generate 32 jobs with a total economic output of $16.2 million.

This $19.75 million bid would allow the council to improve recreational opportunities on the outskirts of Launceston and encourage future residential development to the south of the city. According to the council, maximising recreational opportunities in areas like Kate Reed Reserve to the south of the city will be important in "encouraging future residential development nearby".

The project would include improving road access, trail networks and public facilities as well as a mountain bike skills park. During the construction phase, it's estimated this project will generate 76 jobs with a total economic impact of $23 million.

The Examiner has previously reported on this proposed redevelopment, which is estimated to cost $209 million and forecast to generate 799 jobs with a total economic output of $247 million.

Cr van Zetten also added how councils are seeking support for the kanamaluka / Tamar Estuary.

READ MORE: Launceston Alive Children's and Families' Festival returned on Easter Saturday

"We're also seeking continued support for the implementation of the Tamar Estuary Management Taskforce's long-term vision for the kanamaluka / Tamar Estuary as well as support for the Northern suburbs community hub project," he said.

What do you think? Send us a letter to the editor:

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: