Tasmanian Planning Commission knocks back Stony Rise Village development in Devonport

‘We have failed you’: The CEO behind a proposed major shopping centre on the $40m proposal being knocked back. Here’s why.

Artist's impression of Stony Rise Village in Devonport.

“Sorry Devonport, we have failed you.”

Those are the words uttered by Tipalea Partners CEO Scott Spanton after its $40 million Stony Rise Village development was pushed back.

The Tasmanian Planning Commission (TPC) rejected the rezoning application for the proposed shopping centre after being approved by the Devonport City Council in January 2023.

Mr Spanton said that he had been “personally disappointed” by the TPC’s decision.

“The silver lining is that it has been so encouraging to see the outpouring of support and encouragement for us from everyone in the community, including political leaders on both sides of parliament and regional business groups.

“This is something that both the community and Devonport City Council strongly supported.

“We know the decision doesn’t pass the ‘pub test’ and Tasmania’s third largest city certainly deserves better.”

Scott Spanton, Tipalea Partners CEO. Tipalea is behind the new Spring Farm Village development slated for Kingston. Picture: Brad Harris

Mr Spanton said the whole saga had illustrated a need for an updated planning system.

“Tasmania deserves a planning system that works for everyone. Planning applications should not have to be fought like this,” he said.

“Why are decisions being made based on policies that are over a decade old? Why is it left to under-resourced Councils to fill the gap?

“Where is the collaboration to deliver optimal socio-economic outcomes?”

Premier Jeremy Rockliff addresses the annual state Liberal council held at the Country Club Tasmania in Launceston on Saturday. Picture: Stephanie Dalton

During his speech at the Liberal State Council, Premier Jeremy Rockliff said his government would “continue to slash red tape and cut through any obstacles that makes doing business harder”.

“We have seen a planning decision derail a much-needed retail development at Stony Rise in North West Tasmania,” Mr Rockliff said.

“A retail development that would provide for a medical centre, a supermarket and other speciality stores.

“It’s not good enough.

“We cannot allow decisions like this to stand in the way of economic growth, of jobs, and of progress.

“We will take a good hard look at the rules that led to this decision. And we will take action to ensure common sense prevails.”

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman on the city's new elevated walkway over the Mersey River

Devonport Mayor Alison Jarman said the development had unanimous support from the council.

“We had high hopes that this project would bring not only a supermarket but also create new jobs and increase local investment,” Ms Jarman said.

“The positive economic and social impact on Devonport would have been substantial. We hope that there is a way forward for the developers and this development.”