Salamanca precinct ready for a fresh fix

The first stage of a 2½ year plan to reshape the precinct connecting Salamanca Place to Hobart waterfront is about to kick off.

An artist’s impression of the Salamanca precinct upgrade. Pictures: SUPPLIED

THE first stage of a 2½ year plan to reshape the precinct connecting Salamanca Place to Hobart waterfront begins next week.

The changes include closing the one-way road that runs from Morrison Street to Montpelier Retreat and making the existing two-lane, one-way road connecting Gladstone Street to Morrison Street a two-way road.

The first step in the reconstruction will be the removal of the grassed island at the intersection of Castray Esplanade, Gladstone Street and Morrion Street.

COUNCIL APPROVAL FOR SALAMANCA PLAN

A bird’s eye view of the Salamanca upgrades.

Construction will affect areas of Salamanca Market at times, but Salamanca Market Stallholders Association president Kasha Siena said they were supportive of the changes.

“We have been regularly updated and at this stage there are no major objections,” Ms Siena said.

“We are generally looking forward to the outcome.”

Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said upgrading this area was an important part of the Inner City Action Plan.

“We developed a concept that will give the area a fresh, contemporary feel, providing a high-quality, safe and accessible space for everyone,” Ms Reynolds said.

An artist’s impression of the Salamanca precinct upgrade.

Other changes will include installing new zebra crossings, adding more seating and bicycle parking, together with public artwork, new trees, plants and street furniture.

The project will be delivered in stages and is due to be finished in late 2021.