Behrakis Holdings proposes Burnett St Apartments to activate quieter section of North Hobart

A new proposed residential apartment complex would repurpose an “under-utilised” building and expand North Hobart’s popular strip beyond just Elizabeth St, the developers say.

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WELL known local developers have lodged plans for more than 30 new residential apartments in a traditionally industrial section of North Hobart in an effort to “activate” the area.

A development application has been lodged with the Hobart City Council for 40 and 42-44 Burnett St, North Hobart for demolition and a new building for 31 apartments.

Behrakis Holdings Pty Ltd wants to develop a mixed use building including four floors for 31 apartments, one floor of commercial space and two levels of on-site parking.

Facade of proposed Behrakis residential apartment complex at 40-44 Burnett St, North Hobart.

A planning report by JMG Engineers and Planners said the site was within the commercial zone and any residential use was permitted with the qualification it was above ground level.

Designed by Hobart firm BPSM Architects, the development would be located close to the North Hobart transit corridor and within walking distance of shops and cafes along the popular Elizabeth St strip.

“The proposed development re-purposes fully serviced under-utilised land with a design that positively contributes to the demand for residential dwellings within Hobart,” the JMG report said.

“The Burnett Street Apartments project will activate a quieter part of North Hobart by

continuing a lively edge and link to the busy areas of Elizabeth St.

“Furthermore, proximity to leafy Soundy Park allows and encourages its residents to use the public open space, interact and be part of the city.

“The North Hobart strip is currently the bustling heart of this area, but is limited to a small part of Elizabeth St, condensing pedestrian and traffic activity. Burnett St provides the opportunity to expand this strip, and at the same time provide an attractive and enjoyable connection to the nearby park.”

The proposed residential complex at 40-44 Burnett St, North Hobart would include two levels of parking.

A traffic impact assessment found the proposed development would generate 169 vehicle trips per day from the apartment and commercial uses combined, with up to 19 vehicles per hour during the afternoon peak hour.

“Such traffic movements are not considered to be particularly high, averaging one vehicle every three minutes during peak hour periods and even less at other times,” the report said.

The proposed development would be just five doors away from another new residential complex – Sixty Six North Hobart, which is under construction and will feature 57 apartments.

Hobart City Council alderman Simon Behrakis said he would be declaring an interest in the item and will not vote on the application when it comes to elected members.

Public comment on the application closes on November 11.

View of the proposed development at 40-44 Burnett St, North Hobart from down Burnett St.