DEC redevelopment all budgeted for and ready to go

Tasmania’s return to the NBL is closer now that funding for the DEC redevelopment has been allocated and talks with league owner Larry Kestelman have picked up again.

THE money for the redeveloped Derwent Entertainment Centre and Tasmania’s entry back into the NBL is on the table, but the Government just needs to see what the post-COVID league will look like.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein has reopened talks with NBL owner Larry Kestelman after the coronavirus crisis put work on ice for two months following the announcement of an in-principle agreement in February.

NBL/DEC DEAL COMES WITH A HEFTY PRICE TAG 

Included in the deal is $40 million for the DEC redevelopment, $20 million for a new indoor multisport facility and an annual $2 million sponsorship of the team in return for the 10th NBL licence and a $150 million shopping, hotel and restaurant precinct at adjacent Wilkinsons Point.

Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein and NBL owner and executive chairman Larry Kestelman. Picture: ZAK SIMMONDS

An independent report said the project would create 1200 jobs and bring $100 million of economic activity to Hobart’s northern suburbs.

BARTLETT SAYS THE DEC/NBL DEAL IS A MUST HAVE POST COVID-19

Mr Gutwein confirmed discussions had recommenced and said the redevelopment was part of the infrastructure program announced last Friday.

“The funding is there and it is accounted for. I discussed a number of matters with Mr Kestelman,” Mr Gutwein said.

“Obviously what we need to understand is when the NBL might start playing again and importantly what the league will look like moving forward.

“I have to say Mr Kestelman was very positive about the league and the future.

“I have asked him to come back with some further information and then we’ll talk through that.”

An artist’s impression of the $40 million DEC redevelopment.

Kestelman said when the halt on proceedings was announced work must begin as soon as possible after the two-month delay if Tasmania was to be up and running for the 2021-22 season as originally planned.

Mr Gutwein said the future looked optimistic for Tasmania rejoining the league.

“Mr Kestelman is certainly very positive about the opportunity for a team,” he said.

“We’ve got the money in the budget to upgrade the stadium and I would hope we would be able to progress, but we’ll wait until we get further advice back from Mr Kestelman.”

Kestelman was unavailable for comment.