Macquarie Point stadium public hearings: Project could become Hobart’s ‘Opera House’

The proposed multipurpose stadium at Macquarie Point promises to be an architectural beacon for Hobart celebrated for generations to come, the Tasmanian Planning Commission has heard.

Hobart's proposed ALF Stadium at Mac Point. Picture: Supplied

The proposed multipurpose stadium at Macquarie Point promises to be an architectural beacon for Hobart which will eventually become the “city’s Opera House”, the Tasmanian Planning Commission has heard.

Presenting the state government’s submission on the opening day of public hearings into the project in Hobart on Wednesday, barrister Chris Townsend KC said he was confident Tasmanians would consider the new stadium as appropriate in location and scale once it became embedded in the capital’s social and economic life.

Describing the government’s proposal as “bold and visionary”, Mr Townsend predicted the stadium would eventually be adopted to such a degree that it would be given a nickname by proud locals.

“Where you have a building that you see when you’re driving across the bridge, or you’re driving home … and you remember the last time you took the kids to a game, or the times you had there with your mum and dad, these buildings become different in the way you appreciate them,” Mr Townsend told the TPC panel.

The public hearings, which are a required part of the TPC’s independent assessment of the stadium under Project of State Significance legislation, are being held across multiple dates in June and July.

After making two unsuccessful attempts to have the hearings postponed earlier this month, the Tasmanian government made the decision to appear before the TPC panel, which is being chaired by Paul Turner SC.

Macquarie Point Stadium Model 1. Picture MPDC

Speaking to a 94-page submission made by the proponent, Mr Townsend said it was a “rare privilege” to be involved in a proposal that existed outside established planning frameworks, and which had such significant potential impacts on future generations.

The written submission, published on the TPC website, states an ambition for the stadium to be more than a utilitarian venue for Tasmania.

“It is designed to have a point of difference in a national setting, with a striking design and setting, and with a domed form suggestive of excitement and protection of the activities carried out within, and a spectacular backdrop to the city’s night-life and lights,” the submission reads.

“The design is informed by the site’s history, character, and cultural heritage. This approach ensures that the development is both distinctive and contextually appropriate, while aspiring to a confident visual statement.

“For the assessment of the project, the TPC’s intellectual task is to apply the best principles to considering whether the significant opportunity can be realised, based on its expertise and special knowledge, and not based on a typical town planning assessment based on established planning controls and policies.”

Other representations listed to address the TPC panel over coming days include the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania, Federal Group, Business Events Tasmania, Stadiums Tasmania, Glebe Residents’ Association, Cricket Australia and Cricket Tasmania, and Our Place – Hobart.

The construction of a roofed stadium at Macquarie Point is one of the conditions of the deal with the AFL to add Tasmanian teams to both its men’s and women’s competitions.

The Project of State Significance process is continuing despite government plans to passing so-called enabling legislation which would halt the TPC’s independent assessment.

On the campaign trial on Wednesday, Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed his government remained committed to introducing the legislative shortcut.

Whether or not such laws are brought on following the 19 July state election, the stadium’s fate ultimately rests on being voted through by both houses of parliament.

Originally published as Macquarie Point stadium public hearings: Project could become Hobart’s ‘Opera House’