House wrecker charges

THE developer who illegally demolished his heritage-listed Hobart home will return to court in January to fight a second round of charges relating to the demolition.

Darko Krajinovic, 34, of Mount Stuart, appeared briefly in the Hobart Magistrates Court yesterday.

Krajinovic previously pleaded not guilty to five charges relating to his alleged removal of stone footings at his 55 Mount Stuart Rd property where the demolition occurred.

In February 2017, Krajinovic used an excavator to demolish much of his 1885 home without a planning permit.

He pleaded guilty to nine charges relating to the demolition and was fined $225,000.

Krajinovic appealed against the fine in the Supreme Court, arguing it was manifestly excessive, but lost the appeal.

The charges Krajinovic now faces include failing to ensure demolition work complied with the Building Act, failing to engage a building surveyor, and undertaking a development that is contrary to a planning scheme.

Magistrate Glenn Hay ordered Krajinovic to return to court in January for the case to be heard.

Mr Hay continued Krajinovic’s bail.

The hearing is expected to take two days, and witnesses are expected to include a council heritage officer, other council employees and four civilian witnesses.

Krajinovic’s development application for four townhouses at 55 Mount Stuart Rd was approved by the Hobart City Council in May.