Bringing new life to Hobart's Northern suburbs

Hobart’s proposed rapid bus network underpins the newly-published Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor Growth Strategy, which will guide future development along the important residential growth corridor. 

The strategy will guide future development along the residential growth corridor.

The strategy maps out the staged renewal of areas surrounding the unused rail line from Macquarie Point through to Granton to maximise economic, social and lifestyle benefits.

Minister for Business, Industry and Resources, Eric Abetz, said the rapid bus network and development at Mac Point would combine to catalyse both public and private investment in residential, retail and hospitality developments.

“We know that major transport developments like the proposed rapid bus network bring with them investment in surrounding areas because they provide residents with fast and direct access to employment, education and services,” said Minister Abetz.

“The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor will offer a great lifestyle, housing choice, fast and direct public transport, and a sustainable vibrant economy, nestled between the mountains and river.”

Minister for Housing and Planning, Felix Ellis, said the strategy emphasises the role of medium-density housing, including apartments, townhouses and terrace housing, social, affordable and key worker housing as well as community and recreation spaces.

“Increasing the supply of medium-density housing is key to providing more homes for Tasmanians,” said Minister Ellis.

“We’re using best practice guidelines and up-to-date planning scheme rules to provide the right foundations for increased investment in quality and affordable medium-density housing across Tasmania.

“This Government will continue to work with industry and local government to promote investment in medium-density residential accommodation across the state.”

Developed in collaboration with Glenorchy and Hobart councils and local industry, it also promotes opportunities for mixed-use developments with commercial/retail space on the ground level and residential above.

“Starting with the 4-kilometre stretch from Glenorchy to New Town, the urban renewal of the corridor will breathe new life into the region’s residential and light industrial areas, initially targeting areas within walking distance of the corridor,” Minister Abetz said.

“Importantly, we expect to take the community along on this journey and will be conducting extensive consultation with landowners, businesses and residents in putting together a staged Corridor Plan to recommend zoning changes and guide investment.

“Our newly-released draft Medium Density Design Guidelines will encourage more terrace, townhouse and low- to mid-rise apartment developments and increase the amount of housing in inner-urban areas through infill projects.

“These guidelines will help address Tasmania’s housing shortages and help to rejuvenate inner-city suburbs for Tasmanians by assisting developers, designers and architects to build better-quality homes that reflect the context of their specific location, heritage and environmental factors.

“It will give more Tasmanians access to a home that suits their specific needs, their stage in life and their budget.”
You can view the NSTC Growth Strategy at  https://www.hobartcitydeal.com.au/activating_the_northern_suburbs_transit_corridor

The draft Medium Density Design Guidelines have been released for public comment, closing 6 September 2024. To have your say, visit engage.stategrowth.tas.gov.au.



Comments attributable to Mayor of Clarence, Brendan Blomeley:
Clarence City Council Mayor Brendan Blomeley said the draft Medium Density Guidelines are a positive move toward the future delivery of affordable, well located, high quality and sustainably designed townhouses.
"Low-to-midrise housing in areas such are Rosny Park will provide housing close to the main transport links and activity centres increasing housing options close to amenities and services.
"Through the Warrane Urban Renewal Area and Winkleigh Place development outlined in our City Heart Plan, Council is looking to increase the range and typology of housing, and provision of infrastructure and services, attracting more people to live within or close to the city centre."

Comments attributable to Mayor of Glenorchy, Sue Hickey:
“Glenorchy City Council welcome the release of the Medium Density Design Guidelines for public comment. Greater Hobart’s demographic make-up is changing and housing affordability pressures continue.  As we prepare for future generations we need to do more to provide greater choice in housing for people– and the Medium Density Design Guidelines are a great first-step to show us how.”
“The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor provides a once in a generation opportunity to transform the makeup of Glenorchy’s urban areas and bring more people to live closer to services, ideally supported by high quality public transport.  The Northern Suburbs Transit Corridor Growth Strategy sets out the high-level vision for what could be.”

Comments attributable to Lord Mayor of Hobart, Anna Reynolds:
“The City of Hobart has been undertaking neighbourhood level strategic engagement and planning to consider increased residential density by encouraging high-quality, medium-density housing. It is also identifying the infrastructure, open space, transport and commercial opportunities required to meet the needs of a growing residential population, as the region’s largest employment centre and our most popular visitor destination. 

“We recognise that a crucial part of addressing the housing crisis is offering development certainty and minimising obstacles in the development appraisal process. We are pleased to see the opportunity open for the people of Hobart to have their say on the new draft Medium Density Design Guidelines and encouraged to see the State Government release the draft guidelines for public comment.”

Comments attributable to Mayor of Kingborough, Paula Wriedt:
“The Medium Density Design Guidelines have been developed as part of the implementation of the 30-year Greater Hobart Plan.
“The guidelines promote growing our urban housing supply through infill development rather than increasing the urban sprawl.
“These guidelines are about ensuring developments result in increased density with improved liveability and enjoyable spaces for our community.”