City of Launceston Council has unanimously endorsed a capped contribution of up to $5 million to support the Lindsay Street Wharf Redevelopment and Convention Centre project, helping unlock a key riverfront site for public open space, improved pedestrian links and a modern events facility.
The motion, which was tabled at the Council’s September meeting, was endorsed by the councillors present. During the debate, councillors present spoke in support of the project’s potential to activate a key riverfront site and respond to a long-standing need from the business community for larger conference facilities and event space.
When completed, Council says the convention centre will be capable of hosting national and international events and will transform that section of Lindsay Street into a vibrant, mixed-use precinct which will drive visitation, tourism and events.
The Council’s contribution will be used to deliver the development of land at and adjacent to 95 Lindsay Street, which is currently owned by the Crown. Ownership of the land will be transferred to the City of Launceston, combined with a long-term lease over the adjacent land in the Tamar Conservation Area.
The proposed public open space would support the restoration of the riverbank, creation of boardwalks, and include improved pedestrian links between Invermay, the Seaport and the CBD.
Council’s capped contribution is contingent on the developer securing $10 million from the Tasmanian Government and the finalisation of a draft funding and development agreement.
