A Tasmanian-owned independent brewery has won approval to transform a prominent heritage site in central Launceston into a major hospitality venue.
Off the back of Boag’s departure from the city and the associated job losses, The Albert Brewery has announced it is redeveloping the historic 3–7 George Street precinct.
The City of Launceston has granted approval for redevelopment of the site, formerly known as Cascade House and most recently the Tullochs Auctions site.
The Tasmanian Heritage Council has also given its consent for the project.
The precinct will be turned into a pub, dining hall, function centre and beer garden, with a design that keeps the character of the heritage buildings while opening the site up for public use.
The brewery also has a tap room in Moonah in Hobart’s north.
The Albert Brewery general manager and co-owner Jonathan Hess said the approval was an exciting step forward for both the brewery and the broader Launceston community.
“This approval means we can move ahead with restoring an important part of Launceston’s built history, creating a place that locals and visitors will want to spend time in,” he said.
“As a Tasmanian-owned independent brewery, we want to invest in places that reflect the character of this state and preserve the stories behind them. This project is an opportunity to do both.”
“It is also a practical investment in the city centre that will support jobs, attract visitors and return a significant heritage site to active use.”
Hess said the venue will offer a contemporary pub experience with a distinctly Tasmanian feel, combining traditional pub warmth with the scale and texture of the Victorian warehouse setting.
There will be a strong focus on showcasing local producers, particularly from northern Tasmania and the venue is planned to be family-friendly and inclusive, with no gaming or wagering facilities.
It is located near the Grand Hotel redevelopment and within walking distance of UTAS Stadium.
Further design and building approvals will now begin.
