T Odeon plan worth the risk

HE Hobart City Council has acted wisely in creating a pathway for the meaningful redevelopment of the historic Odeon Theatre and surrounds.

It has been a tricky few weeks for this development, with understandable caution exercised by sections of the council.

The developers Riverlee had asked for a two-year extension to a permit for the redevelopment of the much-loved theatre.

The Melbourne-based developer had initially planned to demolish the Odeon — but keep the facade and foyer.

But this never came to pass and following discussions with Mona subsidiary DarkLab, a much more ambitious plan was hatched — creating an artsbased precinct, retaining the Odeon and adding more music venues, art-house cinemas and gallery spaces.

But to do this they required a two-year extension to a planning permit, which expires in October, to develop the new plans, which will likely involve a new development application.

Riverlee’s request for the extension was initially knocked back by the council’s planning committee, but approved by the full council on Monday night.

This is the type of development that stands to build on Hobart’s strengths. It will enhance our growing reputation as a mecca for arts and culture

The developers now have until October 26, 2019 to substantially start the new development.

The initial hesitancy from the council committee was not unexpected. It has taken something of a leap of faith from the council to entrust the developer with this project.

But to do so is hardly foolhardy. Mona’s involvement is crucial and it is stating the bleeding obvious to say it has runs on the board in the arts and cultural space, particularly this week.

The risk is also worth it. This is the type of development that stands to build on Hobart’s strengths. It will enhance our growing reputation as a mecca for arts and culture. It will likely be the kind of development that will bring the community along for the ride.

The council has done well to support giving it a real opportunity to come to fruition.

And the beauty for us is that at the heart of these plans is a move to retain the magnificent old theatre, not tear it down.

Now it is up to Riverlee and DarkLab to ensure it delivers on the promise.