Launceston councillors have signed off on a new residential development in South Launceston, approving plans for 56 affordable housing units across two three-storey buildings at Rose Lane.
The development, backed unanimously at Thursday night’s council meeting, will include parking, landscaping and infrastructure upgrades, such as road widening and new footpaths, to support the new homes.
Three public representations were received during the planning process, raising concerns about traffic impacts, the site’s former use as a rubbish tip, and fears the development might “attract the wrong type of people into the neighbourhood”.
Council planners reviewed the feedback but said the concerns had been appropriately addressed under the planning scheme.
Councillor Alex Britton welcomed the approval, saying the project “ties in very well” with council’s housing strategy.
“It is exactly what Launceston needs,” he said. “This site, in my opinion, does fit all the parameters as a good site for this type of development.”
Councillor Danny Gibson described the proposal as a step towards a more inclusive housing future.
“This is the front page story … in my mind because here we are as a council facilitating and allowing for the creation of the city of the future that is inclusive of everyone,” he said.
“The drawings and plans that are contained within the report I think are exciting for the mixed use offerings that we are trying to present as our response to ensuring that there are a variety of homes fit for purpose for people of all circumstance, all situation in Launceston as we continue to build the city of the future.”
Due to the site’s history as a former tip, the development required additional planning oversight.
Environmental assessments have been completed and ongoing monitoring conditions have been included as part of the approval.
The proposal comes from developer Errol Stewart of JMC Property Group.
It includes 16 two-bedroom apartments and 12 one-bedroom apartments in each of the two buildings.
The proposal also includes parking for residents, with 44 car spaces and 20 bicycle spaces for building one and 50 car spaces and 20 bicycle spaces for building two.
