Hobart City Council showing why we must take the politics out of planning

On Wednesday night the Hobart City Council rejected a major social housing project proposed for North Hobart.

Minister for Housing and Planning, Felix Ellis, said this project would have provided 38 new studio apartments for women over the age of 50 who are struggling to find a home.

“Despite Council’s own planning officers recommending it for approval with conditions, the council voted it down 5-4,” said Minister Ellis. 

"This refusal also jeopardises crucial Housing Affordability Future Fund investment from Canberra.

“Hobart City Council’s decision makes clear the need for the Tasmanian Government’s independent, expert Development Assessment Panels (DAP), with legislation to be progressed this year.

"We are planning for Tasmania’s future, and we are planning for growth, this legislation will be the next step in our long-term plan to achieve this.

"The new legislation will give the community and developers the confidence that they need in our planning system, so they can invest with certainty, and we can continue to meet the needs of our growing population."