The Tasmanian Greens have thrown down the gauntlet, unveiling a draft bill aimed at protecting the Hobart Cenotaph from any development that might negatively impact its significance.
The Hobart Cenotaph Bill 2024, if passed, would prohibit the approval of any development that ‘adversely impacts’ the cultural heritage and ambiance of the Hobart Cenotaph.
Greens MP Vica Bayley said the bill is “designed to protect the Cenotaph from the Liberals’ Macquarie Point stadium”.
“Drafted at the request of RSL Tasmania, and with the concept endorsed by RSL Australia and Friends of Soldiers Memorial Avenue, this bill ensures that long-standing protections for the values of the Cenotaph are enshrined in law,” he said.
“However, it is drafted to ensure this historic site will be protected from any development that would impact its special values.”
The move comes after the RSL raised concerns about the proposed stadium blocking views of the Cenotaph from key vantage points.
“For decades Macquarie Point has had a 15-metre height limit for new developments, which has helped protect the heritage values of the precinct and Cenotaph,” Bayley said.
“The proposed stadium will tower over this limit at 54 metres high … Its size and bulk will trash Hobart’s heritage and visual values from many different vantage points, including the Cenotaph.”
The bill’s success will require majority support in both houses of parliament.
A government spokesperson dismissed the bill as a “political stunt” motivated by an anti-stadium agenda.
“This … is 100% about stopping the stadium and nothing to do with supporting our veteran community,” they said.
