Reject hotel proposal call

Council urged to stand firm on Kangaroo Bay plan

A REVISED proposal for a hotel at Kangaroo Bay should be rejected, Clarence City Council has been told, after developer Chambroad applied for an extension of time on the project on greater Hobart’s Eastern Shore.

Chambroad was previously set to build a hotel and educational facility at the site, but in October it announced it was dumping plans for a hospitality school because it was unable to secure an educational provider.

On Monday, the council will consider granting the extension after the Chinese company was unable to substantially commence development on time.

Chambroad presented two proposals at a confidential council workshop last month and it chose its preferred option last week, which it has not yet made public.

Under the new proposal, Chambroad would submit a new development application for just a hotel at the site, which would include visitor accommodation, a restaurant and bar, as well as function and conference facilities.

The company has engaged with an Australian brand which is hoping to extend its reach to Tasmania.

A report prepared by Clarence CEO Ian Nelson ahead of the council’s decision noted there were no major accommodation options in Clarence, which meant the region often missed out on tourism benefits.

“The Rosny CBD and Bellerive Village miss the opportunity for further economic growth and diversity due to this lack of customer diversity,” Mr Nelson said in the report.

“This situation is exacerbated when significant events occur at Blundstone Arena, seeing patrons travel into the area for events and then return to the western shore straight after.”

Mr Nelson recommended the alternative proposal be refused, requesting the company undertake community consultation. It is also recommended the extension of time is not granted.

The council entered into a stand-still agreement in October, which expires on December 21.

The council will need to advise Chambroad of its decision before then.

A new development application would need to be lodged by June 2023.

Chambroad Australia director and general manager Finely Zhang welcomed the discussion.

“We are totally supportive of the Clarence City Council process,” Mr Zhang said.

“We look forward to outlining the next steps towards fulfilling the objectives for an iconic hotel building that can activate Kangaroo Bay.”

Mr Zhang said consultation would be undertaken in the new year.

“Chambroad has also listened to the concerns of some nearby residents in modifying the new hotel design,” Mr Zhang said.

Clarence mayor Brendan Blomeley said it was crucial the proposal be given proper consideration.

“We have a diverse representation around the table and Monday night will provide an opportunity for all voices to be heard and votes to be placed on the record,” Mr Blomeley said.

If the council exercises its buyback option, it will pay more than $2.4m.