Planning decision boost for eco-resort
AN ECO-RESORT with a hotel, cabins, restaurant and day spa proposed for Hobart’s eastern shore is a step closer after a council supported changes to the planning scheme which will assist the developers to forge ahead with their plan.
Clarence City Council voted on Monday night to unanimously support an amendment application to create a new specific area plan for the Risdon Vale site.
Located on Downhams Road – on the northeastern side of Sugarloaf Hill to the southeast of the established
residential area of Risdon Vale – the 103ha bush block would be transformed into three precincts – the natural area, visitor centre and hotel accommodation.
The long-term vision for the site put forward by Thai developer Aran Development Pty Ltd and designed by local firm Xsquared Architects includes a 150-room hotel with a 120-seat restaurant, day spa, gym, indoor pool, sauna, conference/function room.
Other features would includes personal services such as hairdressers, beauticians and a gift shop, 49 self-contained two and three bedroom cabins with balcony and
decks, a 100-seat cafe, recreation centre including bike hire, trail maps for walking plus a vineyard.
The project’s Tasmanian representative Sommai Kelly previously said the developers were prepared to spend up to $50m on the development.
While this development was not part of the application considered by council on Monday, the proposed changes to the planning scheme would provide for the site’s future development.
Council officers recommended several administrative changes to the plan, but more substantive changes related to bulk, scale and potential
visual impact on the skyline to ensure the plans fit with the area.
“Through establishing three precincts and associated bulk, scale, siting and separation standards, the proposal is unlikely to introduce any land use conflict with the adjoining residential land to the north and northwest and environmental living lots to the south and east,” the planning officer’s report said.
“The proposal will provide economic benefit and employment opportunities by facilitating the ability to apply for a future tourism venture providing for visitor accommodation and limited range
of complementary uses.” Historically, the Risdon Vale property has suffered from car and rubbish dumping and been the target of wood hookers.
Alderman Richard James said the process to get the project to this point had been “long and very drawn out.”
“But, if we tick this off unanimously, this will send a signal to the community that we will listen to them and at the same time, support development,” he said.
The planning scheme amendments will still need to be ticked off by the Tasmanian Planning Commission.