Launceston councillors will decide this week whether to lease the historic Gorge restaurant to a new operator.
Gunn and Parkinson Pty Ltd has been recommended as the preferred tenant for the Cataract Gorge venue following an expression-of-interest process late last year.
The company was one of two applicants and scored significantly higher across all assessment criteria, including capability, community appeal and sustainability.
Council documents say the proposal “demonstrated a strong understanding of community needs” and aligned with Launceston’s UNESCO City of Gastronomy principles.
The 1896 building, which has housed a restaurant since 1976, is set to undergo refurbishment works in the coming weeks.
The new operators would take over once the works are complete, which is expected by late May.
Under the proposed lease terms, Gunn and Parkinson would receive a six-month rent-free period to help establish the business over winter.
The lease would run for five years, with an option to renew for a further five years.
Council staff have warned that leaving the restaurant vacant poses “a significant strategic and reputational risk”, given its location in one of Tasmania’s most visited tourism precincts.
“Food and beverage offerings are a core expectation in tourism precincts. Their absence diminishes the overall visitor experience,” the council agenda states.
If approved on Thursday, a 21-day public notification period will begin, giving community members the opportunity to lodge objections before the lease is finalised.
