Launceston’s historic Macquarie House to reopen to the public this weekend after months of upgrades

One of the oldest buildings left in Tasmania will be reinvented as a technology hub.

Andrew McCarthy, project superintendent, has been giving tours through the refurbished Macquarie House. Picture: CHRISTOPHER TESTA.

A 190-year-old building in the heart of Launceston will open to the public on Saturday morning after several months of refurbishments.

Macquarie House, originally built in 1829 and 1830 at what is now Civic Square, will become an innovation, entrepreneurship and technology hub.

The four-level sandstone brick building has been fully restored and taken back to its original open floor configuration from the days when provisions were housed there ahead of the first settlement of Melbourne.

“We've retained a huge amount of the original building, which still features original timber and brick work, and is a fascinating glimpse into the past,” Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten said.

“Now Macquarie House is going to be a new home for Enterprize Tasmania, teaching people new skills, creating new pathways for potential start-ups and new businesses, and creating new links in our community.”

Inside the refurbished Macquarie House. Picture: CHRISTOPHER TESTA.

A new timber-clad annexe has been built at the back of Macquarie House, connecting to the main building.

The bottom floor will eventually include a cafe, to be open to the public.

Members of the public will be able to catch a glimpse of the new interior this Saturday, when tours are held every 15 minutes from 10am to 1pm.

“The lower level includes a modern commercial kitchen, while public toilets are located on the northeast corner of the building, and are expected to open in coming weeks,” Cr van Zetten said.

“This project breathes new life into one of Launceston's most historic buildings and I'm thrilled to see its doors opening to the public once more, with a renewed purpose.”