Launceston Council backs multi-step plan to upgrade the Cataract Gorge chairlift

The Launceston Council has backed a multi-step plan to upgrade the Cataract Gorge chairlift, bringing the controversial project closer to fruition. The upgrade details.

View from chairlift above Cataract Gorge in Launceston, Tasmania. chair lift tas /Tasmania

The Launceston Council has backed a multi-step plan to upgrade the Cataract Gorge chairlift, bringing the controversial project closer to fruition.

Experts advised that the chairlift, which was built in 1972, was due for overhaul as existing infrastructure no longer conforms to more modern safety and accessibility expectations.

While the contentious project previously raised ire from local groups worried that upgrades could spoil natural views and erode the privacy of those enjoying the reserve, the council’s new three-step approval process was welcomed by the community and councillors alike.

For the development to proceed, the proponents would require a valid planning permit and a new licence, which would be obtained in three steps.

In the first step, the council is required to decide to initiate a public process, which includes an opportunity for the community to provide objections and lodge an appeal to the Appeal Tribunal.

Once the council has received a positive outcome from any potential appeals, it can decide to enter into a licence or lease with developers, who can then lodge a development application to be considered by the council.

Gorge chairlift

Launceston Cataract Gorge Protection Association vice president Rocelyn Ives called the new approach ‘sensible’ and said it was an important first step before the proposal could proceed.

“We all need and want to know the exact details of the proposal so a proper, fully informed decision can be made,” she said.

“We note that the first step would involve a public process with an opportunity for the community to comment, and we applaud this important aspect being included.

“It will allow for sufficient time for the community to engage fully with the proposal and, ideally, enough time for modifications to be made in response to feedback. It is not desirable for any party to go to the Appeals Tribunal.”

Councillor Alan Harris supported the novel process, which he said acknowledges an asset that has coexisted in Launceston since 1972.

“[The chairlift] is a nationally award-winning tourism asset that brings a great return to Launceston,” he said.

“But it is hard for our community and thus us as the council representatives to make an informed decision to allow a lodgement of a development application without the necessary information.

“And so I think with regard to this three-step process and how those steps will work, we are able to move forward.”

Councillor Danny Gibson also welcomed the new process, which he said would allow the community to provide input into the design of the new chairlift.

“This is a great step forward,” Mr Gibson said.

“I look forward to the proponents bringing their ideas to the council come back with something that we can all be proud of for the next 50 years and hopefully win many more tourism awards because it is actually one of our greatest assets, the Gorge.”

The councillors unanimously voted in favour of the new process, with all attending councillors supporting the motion.