A developer who was knocked back five years ago in their bid to build a dozen apartments in Sandy Bay is back for a second attempt at approval.
In 2019, WQD Capital proposed building 12 homes on a vacant block at 9 Star Street, but the plans were rejected due to concerns about residential density and a lack of private open space.
The decision was appealed to the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which gave the development the green light on the condition that the number of apartments be halved so each could have extra private open space.
However, the complex was never built and is now back in the works, this time as apartments to be used solely for short-term visitor accommodation.
The proposed five-storey building would include parking for 12 vehicles and twelve two-bedroom units across three levels.
It has been recommended for approval by the Hobart City Council with a number of planning conditions, including one that stipulates the building is “not approved for residential use”.
Throughout recent consultation, eight local residents raised concerns about the height, use and potential impact of the building on nearby businesses.
“The proposal does not service the needs of the neighbourhood as it is for visitor accommodation,” one resident said.
“The building would disrupt the neighbourhood’s visual harmony,” said another. “Construction would cause significant disruption and noise,” a third concern read.
“That big 12-apartment monstrosity would block all the lovely views we’ve enjoyed for years and you just know it’ll bring the property values down,” another resident said.
The developer said the proposal will help “meet growing demand” for accommodation in Hobart and that it “does not result in the loss of any existing residential housing”.
“The primary issue regarding visitor accommodation in recent times is the trend of converting existing residential properties for short-term accommodation, significantly reducing long term rental options and contributing to the housing crisis,” planning documents read.
Councillors will vote on the development at a planning meeting on Wednesday.
