Published Mercury Newspaper
St David’s Park would host live performances and undergo a “heritage-sensitive upgrade” under a proposal from a newly announced council candidate.
Edwin Johnstone, chair of Business Greater Hobart, is running for Hobart city councillor and deputy lord mayor.
Mr Johnstone said his two decades of work in Hobart’s small business sector lent him the experience required to serve on council.
“I have been listening, contributing and working on local issues for years, not simply turning up at election time,” he said. “I know that achieving results requires more than making noise. I am standing because Hobart needs experienced and respectful leadership, careful management of ratepayer money and a stronger focus on practical priorities.”
Core to his platform is a plan to reinvigorate St David’s Park.
Mr Johnstone said the recent removal of the Salamanca park’s two giant sequoia trees offered a “once-in-ageneration opportunity to explore options” for the site.
“St David’s Park is the heart of the city, and it needs a clear vision, a plan and a future,” he said. “My proposal would investigate a modest, accessible and heritage-sensitive upgrade, including a performance space around the rotunda that could support free concerts, choirs, school performances and community events.
“This proposal must be approached carefully with a robust community consultation process that protects the park’s heritage and character.”
Mr Johnstone has served as Chair of Business Greater Hobart since 2023 and is involved in several community organisations and council advisory groups.
Bridget Clarke
Mercury Newspaper
