Plans for a new supermarket and retail complex in Devonport have been knocked back by the Tasmanian Planning Commission, leaving the community and local businesses disappointed.
The proposed Stony Rise Village, located near the Homemaker Centre, was envisioned as more than just a place to shop.
It promised new jobs, local investment and a boost to the economy, according to Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman.
“The positive economic and social impact on Devonport would have been substantial,” she said.
The developer behind the village, Tipalea Partners, last week lodged plans for a shopping centre in Kingston.
The Planning Commission rejected the rezoning application over concerns about the lack of public transport to the site and the potential negative impact on other town centres in the region.
They found that the complex would “diminish the integrity and vitality of several towns and commercial centres” nearby.
“The existing planning scheme provisions effectively designate the area as being for large-format retail and restrict a range of other general retail goods being provided in this location,” the findings read.
“The draft amendment is likely to adversely affect existing town centres which provide a high degree of access through either their proximity to houses or due to their location concerning the public transport network.
“Consequently, the commission finds that the draft amendment is not, as far as practicable, consistent with the regional strategy.”
“The commission considers, due to the matters addressed above, that it is not able to modify the draft amendment in a manner that would give effect to the purpose intended by the applicant or the planning authority.”
It also noted the proximity of the proposed development to existing large-format retailers Bunnings and Harvey Norman, as well as established supermarkets within Devonport.
“Council has backed this proposed development and was looking forward to the utilisation of a strategic parcel of land which has remained vacant for over 10 years,” Mayor Jarman said.
“The community are clearly in support of this proposal … We hope that there is a way forward for the developers and this development.”
