“A bridge too far”: Concern over noise as Telegraph Hotel gets green light

Plans for a rooftop bar at a popular pub site have been given the green light, but neighbours say the noise will drive their guests away. LATEST >>

Plans for a rooftop bar at the site of the former Telegraph Hotel have got the green light from the Hobart Planning Committee, amid concerns it will be too noisy for neighbouring apartments.

Partial demolition and alterations at the Morrison Street property were approved on Monday night, with Australian Venue Co hoping to demolish the roof to add a rooftop bar.

The applicants also plan to remodel the ground level for a new bar and casual dining area, while the guestrooms on the upper level are planned to be demolished to make way for restaurant dining.

The popular pub has been closed since April.

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During the advertising period, five representations were made objecting to the proposal, in particular the rooftop bar.

Concerns were raised around potential noise from the bar, heritage and the visual impact of potential changes.

Representative for Sullivan’s Cove apartments Cameron Brett told the planning committee there had been problems with noise when the Telegraph Hotel was running.

“When developing the apartments, we spent nearly $500,000 to soundproof our building against external noise by double glazing, additional soundproof walls in the apartments and also in the carpark of the lower level,” Mr Brett said.

“Despite these efforts, the structure of the Telegraph Hotel next door, their ground floor especially has seen noise penetrate our buildings early into the morning.

“For nearly ten years we’ve suffered annual losses between $30,000 to $50,000 due to refunds and cancellations associated with noise complaints.”

Breaking News Breaking News Artist impressions of a refurbished Telegraph Hotel in Hobart

Mr Brett said the apartment owners generally supported the plans for the refurbishment, just not the rooftop bar.

“The rooftop bar is a bridge too far,” Mr Brett said.

“I don’t believe this proposal passes the pub test.”

An additional condition was proposed by council officers in relation to potential noise, with a noise management plan prepared by an acoustic engineer required to be approved before the venue can operate.

Ald Jeff Briscoe suggested the rooftop bar be open until 11pm instead of 1am.

Representing Australian Venue Co, Chris Mallalue said it was something the company would consider.

“We’re definitely open to a discussion,” Mr Mallalue said.

The building is not heritage listed but has been nominated to be heritage listed.

The council’s heritage officer has recommended a number of aspects be retained, including a section of glass bricks in the facade and that brickworks be repainted instead of “rendered”.

The matter was approved under the conditions the rooftop bar only operate until 11pm and a noise management plan be approved.

Mr Brett has flagged intention to appeal.