Hobart could become a new Eden

A WORLD-RENOWNED eco-tourism attraction is interested in creating a second home at Macquarie Point on Hobart’s waterfront.

The Eden Project in St Austell, England. Pictures: MATT CARDY/GETTY IMAGES

A WORLD-RENOWNED eco-tourism attraction is interested in creating a second home at Macquarie Point on Hobart’s waterfront.

The Eden Project, an eco-tourism facility in Cornwall, in Britain, has shown interest in setting up its first southern hemisphere project, State Growth Minister Matthew Groom has confirmed.

In Cornwall, the project features biodomes housing a rainforest including 1000 different plant species, and is nestled in a crater transformed in a sustainable manner.

Mr Groom said there had been some interest in the project amid accusations from Greens leader Cassy O’Connor he had ignored the proposal until now because it was too “green”.

“Yes, I can confirm there has been a form of interest of such a project at Macquarie Point,” the minister said.

“The notion that I see the project as too green is laughable.

“I understand your interest and enthusiasm for the project.

“It is certainly an exciting prospective project.”

Ms O’Connor said the Eden Project was one of the world’s most impressive and visited eco-tourism destinations.

“With its ethos of restoration, conservation, education and community engagement, the Eden Project is a perfect fit for Tasmania,” she said.

“It would significantly enhance the strength of our natural brand.

“Given the success of the Eden Project as a visitor attraction and its global recognition, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for Tasmania.”

A toddler explores the Sense of Memory Garden at the Eden Project.

Mr Groom did not say how long he had known about the project and was keeping tight-lipped on the details.

“We are going through a process,” he said.

The Eden Project could not be reached for comment.

A Macquarie Point Development Corporation spokesman said it would not confirm the project’s interest.

“This is a huge opportunity for all those involved and has been attracting developer interest from across the country and from around the world since the project was first conceptualised,” he said.

The spokesman said the corporation would not be releasing the names of the companies that have submitted proposals for the development of Macquarie Point.