$1.5 million New Town Retail Precinct Upgrade sparks new opportunities for businesses

The $1.5 million stage two of Hobart’s New Town Retail Precinct Upgrade has been launched after a nearly three-year delay caused by the impacts of COVID-19.

In 2020, stage one of the New Town precinct upgrade was completed with new pedestrian crossings, garden beds, benches and bike racks installed along New Town Road.

The second stage of the New Town Retail Precinct Upgrade will see local public transport improved with a new, high-quality public bus shelter and a pocket park with green space and seating in front of the Salvation Army complex.

The project will also create a space that opens up new possibilities for local communities and businesses through pop-up events, markets and other activities.

The City of Hobart and Tasmanian construction firm MSD Civil Services will work closely with local businesses and residents to limit any potential impacts on trade and the day-to-day lives of locals during the construction phase.

The City is also co-ordinating a range of business support and information services through its newly established City Economy Unit, which will help promote and support New Town businesses during the project through the Hello Hobart website.

The website is designed to connect people with local businesses, such as cafes, restaurants, services and shops.

The City will also work with the local community to stage a celebration of the precinct once work on the Roope Street intersection is completed in late spring/early summer this year.

Stage two of the project has been made possible through the support of the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, which will fund the majority of the upgrade works. 

Additional support has been provided through the Vulnerable Road User Program (VRUP), co-funded by the Australian Government and Tasmanian Government under the Australian Government’s $3 billion Road Safety Program. 

The City has secured well respected Tasmanian construction firm MSD Civil Services for the project.

More information on the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program is available at https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/about/local-initiatives/local-roads-and-community-infrastructure/index.aspx.

More information on the Road Safety Program can be found at www.officeofroadsafety.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Federal Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Transport and Senator for Tasmania Carol Brown:

“We’re investing in infrastructure projects across the nation, including in the New Town Precinct of Hobart, ensuring the needs of our communities are funded and delivered.”

“I welcome these works which will not only beautify and update the New Town Precinct but will provide safer passenger and pedestrian travel access, along with amenities that integrate with public transport.

“The upgrade will also enhance the significance of community for New Town with a flexible space which can be used for local markets and events, as well as more green space and seating to be provided nearby.”

Quotes attributable to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:

"Hobart has not been immune to the slow-down in large-scale construction projects caused by the impacts of COVID-19 but thanks to the support of the Australian and Tasmanian governments, we can now start stage two of our exciting New Town precinct upgrade.

“Two more pedestrian crossings will be added to New Town Road, making the precinct safer for everyone.”

Quotes attributable to City Mobility Portfolio Chair, City of Hobart Ryan Posselt:

“A high-quality, disability compliant bus shelter and two more pedestrian crossings help to promote alternatives to jumping in the car and adding more traffic to our roads. 

“Anything that increases public transport uptake and improves walkability in Hobart can only be a benefit to the city.”