Artwork by celebrated Tasmanian artist Stephen Walker to be centrepiece of new Tasman Private Hospital if approved

The application for a contentious new private hospital in greater Hobart is expected to come to council by the end of the month. See what the developers are proposing to do with an artwork at the site by one of Tasmania’s most celebrating artists >>

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A DRAMATIC artwork by one of Tasmania’s most celebrated artists would become a centrepiece of the entry to a contentious new development if it receives the council tick of approval.

A 4.6m x 5.7m concrete sculpture at the main entry to the former WIN TV studios at New Town by the late Stephen Walker would be incorporated into the new Tasman Private Hospital.

Nexus Hospitals and the Tasmanian construction firm Contact Group want to build a $55 million short-stay hospital at the site on New Town Rd.

Stephen Walker artwork proposed for Nexus Hospitals development in New Town

The project was knocked back by the Hobart City Council in December, on grounds including that it did not contribute positively to the streetscape and would have an unreasonable impact on residential amenity.

In June, a new application with “substantial alterations and improvements in line with feedback received” was submitted, Nexus CEO Andrew Petering said.

Council staff are finalising their assessment of the new application, which is expected to come before the planning committee on Monday.

Best known for the Abel Tasman fountain in Salamanca Square, Heading South at Victoria Dock and Tidal Pools at Sandy Bay, Mr Walker’s pieces were predominating bronze sculptures, which makes the concrete artwork at New Town quite unique.

“It is likely the only concrete sculpture that Stephen made that still exists,” his wife Elizabeth said.

Adam Walker in front of his fathers untitled sculpture (Stephen Walker) that will be incorporated into a hospital development at New Town. Picture Chris Kidd

“I could not put an exact date on it, and I have looked through photos and clippings, but it would have to have been created before 1972.”

Son Adam Walker said it was important to the family that his father’s legacy was recognised.

“It is important his work is treated with respect,” he said.

“With the right mounting, the results can be quite striking and dramatic.

“Dad would be happy with this proposal – his attitude was art is a living and evolving creature.”

Mr Walker said while his focus was on his dad’s work, he was aware of concerns about it from surrounding residents.

“I have faith the institutions that are around the development and planning process will look after the residents,” he said.

If built, the development would feature an acute surgical hospital with six operating theatres and a 24-bed overnight ward.

Co-located health services such as general practice, pharmacy, radiology, pathology and health support services, as well as conference and research facilities have also been mooted.