A new stadium precinct proposal has recently been floated in Hobart, Tasmania. This new proposal is seen as a replacement for the dead Devils proposal and a way to raise Tasmania’s hopes of joining the Australian Football League (AFL). Tasmanian MP David O’Byrne was unequivocal in a scathing reaction to the plan. He underscored this point by noting that 90% of the new revenue and value capture will remain here in the state. Fortunately, in the next four to five weeks, there will be a critical vote on this. If properly implemented, this legislative development holds great potential to produce considerable savings for Tasmanian taxpayers.
The ambitious proposal goes well beyond that with a number of key components focusing on improving the region’s infrastructure and access to healthcare. Topping the list are plans for a new private-sector hospital, which would help shore up local healthcare services. The larger project even combines with affordable housing efforts to welcome the local workforce home. It’ll be home to hundreds of new apartments and a new hotel for visitors.
According to stadium precinct director Dean Coleman, the project would have an extraordinary positive influence on Hobart and Tasmania. He stated, “We can build it quicker. The disruption to Hobart and Tasmania is far more minimal.” This claim is particularly surprising as they are all in the midst of stakeholders trying to demonstrate that their proposal is the better, more workable solution for the community.
Their 2007 comprehensive plan featured a brand new convention center. It’s got an expanded surface-level car park to draw more attendees to the venue. Coleman said it was important to get out there and deliver the best solution and fulfill the expectations of Tasmanians. “We want to just be proven to be the viable option,” he said.
O’Byrne said he was disappointed with the five-year delay in reaching a stadium agreement. “It’s been quite frustrating (that it’s gone on so long) but we’re here now and I think in the next 4-5 weeks it will be resolved,” he stated. He had argued strongly for Tasmanians to retain as much of the financial spoils from the project as possible. This is important for the adjacent community’s health.
Coleman added an analogy to emphasize the importance of thorough evaluation in choosing the right plan: “You don’t buy a dud car when you know it’s a dud, but you (still buy it because) you’ve already put it in your budget. You go and test drive a couple of other ones and get the best car possible.”
As Tasmania continues to navigate its AFL ambitions, this new proposal may provide a pathway toward fulfilling those dreams while enhancing local infrastructure and services. The outcome of the upcoming vote will determine the future direction of Tasmania’s sporting landscape and its potential economic benefits.
