New Norfolk is “going gangbusters” with record new build numbers

Never in the history of New Norfolk has development moved so quickly, with thousands of building applications approved and progress showing no signs of slowing. PLANS + DESIGNS >>

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Never in the history of New Norfolk has development moved so quickly, with thousands of building applications approved and many of which are already under construction.

With record-breaking progress, New Norfolk mayor Ben Shaw said the town is on target to become “a country capital of Tasmania” and “a satellite city of Hobart” in the next ten years.

Mr Shaw said “its going gangbusters at the moment” after a steady growth over the past year and a half that is showing no signs of slowing.

He said the community has welcomed the $500m development of The Mills estate, which includes 790 residential lots along with key amenities and retirement accommodations, with open arms.

“The proof is in the pudding with this, we didn’t receive any (adverse) representations against it, so that gives you a feel about how the community needs and wants that extra growth,” Mr Shaw said.

The first 30 of the residential lots are close to their expected November completion before the next lot of 48 is commenced, to be followed by lots of 20-40 so development “keeps rolling straight through”.

“People really want them, as soon as a lot is released they are purchased straight away,” Mr Shaw said.

The Mills’ over-50s village, which is set to have 250 retirement units in a gated village, has received positive feedback too, with “40 contracts signed on the night” of a recent information session alone.

Mr Shaw said there is “so much going on outside The Mills” too including 20 new social housing accommodations soon to be available, 40 new Centrecare social houses that have been built with another 50 to come, a 54 lot subdivision “all sold off the plan in a week” in the Magra hamlet, and an application that is currently in for a 75 lot sub-division near Tynwald Park.

“Our growth is the culmination of Hobart becoming more expensive and the stress on the housing market and people are starting to realise that New Norfolk is a great place to live and raise a family,” he said.

“We are just 25 minutes from Hobart in such a peaceful, tranquil and beautiful area.”

However this growth needs to be tempered with sustainability; with a growth strategy currently being planned to ensure the boosting of key infrastructures and services, Mr Shaw said.

Breaking the “rough and tumble” stigma of the heavily industrial area which also operated a mental asylum for 200 years has allowed it to leave behind its “shackles” and move towards its future as a progressive town which still retains its quiet, country charm.

“We are really excited, we are going to become a regional powerhouse in the next ten years,” Mr Shaw said.