Historic Treasury buildings sale slated for next year

A nearly 200-year-old building complex will be sold through an expressions of interest process by the end of next year, documents reveal.

The Murry St entrance of the Hobart Treasury buildings. Picture: RICHARD JUPE

HOBART’S historic Treasury building complex will be put up for sale through an expressions of interest process, Government tender documents reveal.

The eight heritage-listed buildings in Franklin Square have been in public hands for almost 195 years.

Their sale is intended to be completed by October of next year.

The Government has advertised for consultants to help dispose of the buildings, which have variously served in roles including the state’s first Supreme Court, a police station and cells, a post office, the executive building and as a tourist bureau. More recently they have been home to more than 200 public servants from the Department of Treasury and Finance and the Tasmanian Economic Regulator.

The tender documents say the complex may be suitable for a range of uses.

GOVERNMENT TO TENDER FOR ADVICE ON TREASURY SALE

The Treasury buildings facing Franklin Square. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE

“The Government does not have any specific concepts in relation to future developments although, given the central location and attractive heritage facade, the Treasury building complex may be suited to alternative uses, subject to relevant planning approvals, such as visitor accommodation, retail, restaurants or a combination of mixed uses,” the documents say.

“The location and nature of the site is such that it is considered highly significant and a prime development site. The Government seeks to encourage and facilitate the successful development of the site that enhances its unique cultural and heritage nature, while creating an innovative and quality outcome.”

IT’S TIME FOR TREASURY BUILDINGS TO HAVE NEW LIFE

SHOULD WE KEEP GEORGIAN GEM IN PUBLIC HANDS?

GALLERY: TAKE A LOOK INSIDE THE TREASURY BUILDINGS

Chris Merridew is part of a growing campaign to keep the Treasury buildings in public hands. Picture: MATHEW FARRELL

A community campaign to save the buildings kicked off last year, led by long-serving National Trust Council member Chris Merridew.

He said the success of Port Arthur in the recent Australian Tourism Awards was a sign of how heritage properties could thrive in public hands.

“Internationally, there is growing tourism interest in exploring convict connections, especially of those sent to Van Diemens Land,” he said.

A call for registrations of interest in the Treasury complex is expected to begin in June.