The Devonport City Council has unveiled plans for two major development sites in the heart of the CBD, promising high-end apartments with river views and a new commercial precinct.
The Formby Road Urban Renewal Study identifies two parcels of council-owned land near the existing cinema complex that are being opened up for private investment.
Parcel A could support up to 6,500 square metres of office and commercial space above basement parking.
Parcel B would deliver residential apartments across four or more levels, sitting above two to three floors of public parking.
Mayor Alison Jarman said the project would transform what is currently a tired car-parking area into a vibrant hub.
“With new residential apartments and office space, the whole vibrancy of the area will change … into an attractive space with new public amenities and direct links through the arcades to the existing shopping areas,” she said.
“CBD retailers will see a real boost in daily activity and importantly public carparking will be retained within the precinct.”
The apartments are expected to offer uninterrupted views to the mouth of the Mersey River.
“I’ve got no doubt they will attract a lot of interest, particularly given the growing demand for real estate in the region,” Jarman said.
Council will not fund or develop the sites itself, instead seeking private investors and developers to deliver the projects.
A new urban plaza is also proposed, connecting the development to the Rooke Street Mall and Stewart Street and creating improved pedestrian links.
The plan forms part of the ‘Living City’ strategy that has guided Devonport’s development since 2013.
Previous stages included the paranaple centre and waterfront upgrades.
Jarman said releasing the plan was “the next logical step in creating a connected, activated and future focused city centre”.
Council officers will now engage with local businesses and property owners to gather feedback.
Any proposed development would follow standard planning approval processes, including public consultation.
