Fern Tree church on the agenda

THE Hobart City Council will seek discussions with the Parish of All Saints about keeping St Raphaels Church at Fern Tree in public ownership, in light of the Anglican Church’s property fire sale.

The Anglican Church this month released a list of 108 properties being considered for sale, including 76 churches.

The sale is expected to raise about $20 million, with 25 per cent to be put aside to fund payments to the victims of sexual abuse in the church.

On Monday, the council approved a motion from Alderman Eva Ruzicka to seek permission from Bishop Richard Condie to speak with the parish on the future of St Raphaels.

Ald Ruzicka said last night the discussion between herself, general manager Nick Heath and the parish would look at options to keep the church and its use in public ownership. The motion also called for a report on the discussion. UNIVERSITY of Tasmania has bought a hotel in the Hobart CBD in a bid to combat skyrocketing rental costs and a lack of student housing across the city.

Yesterday, the university announced it had bought Midcity Hotel at the corner of Elizabeth and Bathurst streets.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Rufus Black said the hotel, which would accommodate 170 beds, would have a significant impact on meeting demand for student housing.

“We are very aware of the tightening housing market in Hobart and the impact this is