Have your say on Darklab’s Project X artwork and visitor centre proposal at Ida Bay

Public comment is being sought on Darklab’s $8.5m Project X artwork, visitor centre, carpark and walking track plan in the state’s far south.

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PUBLIC comment is open for an environmental report on a proposed Darklab development at a historic heritage precinct in the state’s deep south.

The Parks and Wildlife Service is seeking feedback on an $8.5m artwork and visitor centre proposed within the Ida Bay State Reserve.

DarkLab, a subsidiary of Mona, submitted a development application to Huon Valley Council last year to build the centre as part of its Project X tourism initiative.

Project X was established to deliver low-impact tourism and reinvigorate Tasmania’s south after the bushfires of 2019.

An artist’s impression of Doug Aitken’s Transformer for Project X. Image courtesy: Doug Aitken and DarkLab

DarkLab previously said the artwork was predicted to attract 30,000 visitors each year and contribute $4.8m to the local economy.

It is a permanent and site-specific commission by US artist Doug Aitken and will be funded by the federal and state governments and DarkLab.

The proposal also includes building a visitor welcome centre, carpark and walking track.

PWS said Darklab had said it would aim to ensure the development would not affect the potential for recommencement of a tourist railway on the site and had drafted a conservation management plan.

The railway in the Lune River area has not operated since late 2018 and PWS later terminated the lease over safety issues.

To view Darklab’s draft environmental impact statement and make a submission by July 4, visit www.parks.tas.gov.au.