Business- tourism backs Hobart waterfront plans process

Tasmania's business community has backed the State Government's handling of plans to redevelop a prime piece of land on Hobart's waterfront.

The Hunter Developments consortium, which includes Federal Hotels, is the Government's preferred developer for the Brooke Street Ferry Pier.

It's rumoured the group wants to build a 100-room hotel on the site.

The Opposition Leader, Will Hodgman, won't back the development until he's seen plans, but says the Government has handled the situation poorly.

"This Government has not realised the capacity and the potential of Hobart's waterfront," Mr Hodgman said.

"There is considerable public interest in Hobart's waterfront and we need to get it right."

The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry says the site has enormous potential and there's no evidence of impropriety.

The Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania - whose directors include Simon Currant, a member of the Hunter Developments consortium - has welcomed the prospect of improved ferry facilities and extra hotel capacity for the city.

"I think it's a shame the way this has come to light," the Council's Daniel Hanna said.

"We think this is potentially some really good news."

The State Government says proper procedure has been followed and the public will get a chance to have its say about the project.

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Thu 10th July 2008 - 07:35pm