The City of Hobart is set to decide this week on a proposed multi-storey sports centre at South Hobart Oval, put forward by the South Hobart Football Club.
The development application outlines plans for ground-floor change rooms, two club rooms, an accessible viewing area, ticketing facilities and a canteen.
According to the application, the club identified a need for improved facilities, including dedicated female change rooms, to create a space that is “fit for purpose”.
However, the project has faced opposition, with 21 formal objections lodged by South Hobart residents.
Some argue that the development is an attempt by the football club to gain exclusive use of the public oval, potentially limiting public access.
Others raised concerns about increased traffic, noise and the impact on other community groups using the oval, such as dog walkers.
Despite these objections, City of Hobart planners have recommended approval, stating the proposal aligns with the area’s planning scheme.
One condition specifies that the building must be used exclusively for activities “directly associated with and subservient to sports and recreation use of the site”.
“The development is not approved as a function centre and must not be used for a use that is not directly associated with and subservient to sports and recreation use of the site,” the condition states.
The proposed operating hours are 7am to 8pm from Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm on Saturdays and 10am to 5pm on Sundays.
City councillors will review and vote on the application during their meeting on Wednesday evening.
