Plans to build the longest, fastest zip-line in the Asia-Pacific down the side of Kunanyi/Mt Wellington have been recommended for approval.
The 1,266-metre-long zip-line in Wellington Park, proposed by TAZZIP, would run from a new platform at The Springs to Strickland Avenue.
828 representations were considered by specialist council planning staff in reviewing the application, all of which were “almost exclusively opposed”.
Among the concerns raised were that the zip-line would lead to a significant loss of amenity for current users of the park and that the attraction has no demonstrated community benefit.
Some suggested alternative locations away from Kunanyi/Mt Wellington would be more suitable for such a tourist venture.
The Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania has previously voiced its opposition to the “tourism gimmick”, saying the sacred area is not a “theme park”.
Despite this, council planners determined the zip-line complies with relevant planning scheme requirements and the Wellington Park Management Plan.
They recommended several conditions be imposed upon the project, including restricting operating hours to between 8:30am and 4:30pm daily and prohibiting construction near Strickland Falls from September to March.
The zipline must use magnetic pulley systems or quieter pulley systems approved by the council and measures to reduce noise from the cable braking system must be implemented.
TAZZIP must also consult with the Aboriginal community, implement mitigation measures, conduct site inspections with an archaeologist and have an Aboriginal Heritage Officer on-site during construction.
The project will now be assessed by city councillors at a meeting next Wednesday.
