Hobart Faces Major Planning Shake-Up to Push Medium Density Housing
The Tasmanian Government is proposing major changes to the planning system aimed at making it easier to build medium density housing across the state.
The reforms include new apartment rules, changes to residential zones, reduced parking requirements in some areas, and higher density housing near transport corridors and activity centres.
The City of Hobart has broadly supported the direction of the reforms, acknowledging the need for more housing diversity and increased supply, but has also raised concerns about complexity, implementation and the risk of unintended consequences.
At the centre of the debate is a proposed new residential zone designed to encourage more apartments, townhouses and terraces in established urban areas, particularly within walking distance of public transport and business centres.
The State Planning Office says Tasmania’s housing stock remains heavily dominated by detached homes, with 88 per cent of housing still made up of single dwellings.
While there is little argument that Hobart needs more housing options, questions remain about how these changes would work in practice.
Parking is likely to become a major issue, with proposals to reduce car parking requirements for some developments located near transport corridors and activity centres.
The City of Hobart has also warned the reforms could create additional planning complexity, interpretation disputes and increased pressure on councils unless the system is simplified and properly tested first.
The broader challenge will be finding the balance between increasing housing supply while protecting the liveability, character and functionality of Hobart’s neighbourhoods.
The discussion paper is currently out for consultation.
Edwin Johnstone
Chair, Business Greater Hobart
