Calls for expression of interests in a development at the Springs on Mt Wellington

Alderman Jeff Briscoe said today it was time for the Council to call for expressions of interest from interested parties for a sensitive development at the Springs.

To start the process, Alderman Briscoe has today lodged a notice of motion for the HCC to commence a expressions of interest for such a development.

Alderman Briscoe said no changes to the Wellington Park Management plan were required (unlike the Cable Car proposal) and it appeared that the public were generally supportive of a development that contained a visitor centre, a restaurant and perhaps accommodation at the Springs .

“The Springs is the site of a previous hotel, sadly having burnt down but never replaced.

“We have this beautiful mountain that all should be able to enjoy but it does require 21 century infrastructure.”

“I can envisage a development that would enable tourists, the growing mountain bike riders community, bushwalkers and the general public to enjoy a world class experience, winter and summer whilst protecting the environment of the mountain.”

“At Mt Cook in NZ, the visitor centre and accommodation are on the foothills (similar to the springs) and it is very successful ”

“I know there are architects out there that have innovative designs and are waiting for HCC to act”

“Much of the HCC preparation work has been done 15 years ago when it last called for expressions of interest”. It was sad that the Ali Sultan development fell over recently but I can imagine many tourist operators wholly heartly supporting a visitor centre and associated infrastructure”

Background

Alderman Jeff Briscoe is the current Chair of Parks and Customer Services Hobart City Council responsible for the mountain park
and the former Wellington Park Trust Chairman appointed by Jim Bacon.
Alderman Jeff Briscoe, Hobart City Council