Your voice matters in shaping Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay

Published on 03 November 2023

The future of the Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay neighbourhoods is at a pivotal juncture, and the City of Hobart wants the community to be a part of this transformative journey.

The Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay Neighbourhood Plan discussion paper is calling for the active involvement of our community members, stakeholders, and residents in shaping the vision for our suburbs through a comprehensive consultation process.

The Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay Neighbourhood Plan will demonstrate how population growth will be accommodated over the 20-year planning horizon to 2042.

Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay has been identified in the Greater Hobart Plan as an area able to accommodate extra residents with 2,630 new dwellings and 7,850 new residents expected by 2042 (Source: .id Consulting Pty Ltd).

Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds said this was why a Plan was needed now.

“We as a community and a Council need to prepare for this population growth so we don’t lose the unique character and lifestyle that so many love here,” Cr Reynolds said.

The Plan does this by identifying opportunities for residential medium density development and revitalisation of commercial and retail areas.

“We need to respond to environmental challenges we are facing,” Cr Reynolds said.

“It is wise for us to be prepared for the risks of climate change including bushfire, riverine flooding, coastal erosion and inundation, and identifying opportunities to improve sustainable transport options.

“We must also be protecting areas of significant biodiversity value, improving the use of public open space and connecting the coastal and mountain environment.”

Several options for the future of the University of Tasmania’s Sandy Bay campus are also included in the discussion paper, including potential for continual educational purposes; gradual redevelopment for residential, retail, and commercial purposes; diverse housing types; a multi-use community centre; and protection of sensitive environmental areas on the upper slopes.

Future Hobart Portfolio Chair Helen Burnet said the discussion paper’s new vision had the potential to positively impact the way of life in Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay.

“The eventual implementation of this Plan could see so many benefits for not only these two suburbs, but for all Hobart,” Cr Burnet said.

“It could result in the upgrades to public open space, walking trails and community facilities; new parks for community use; new historic heritage and Aboriginal heritage trails, interpretation and public art; improved use of the waterfront for all users; and revitalisation of existing shopping centres.”

Cr Reynolds said there were so many hidden gems in this area that could be developed through this Plan.

“This Plan could see a more vibrant neighbourhood for future generations through high quality design of new buildings and increased numbers of street trees for urban amenity and biodiversity,” Cr Reynolds said.

“We could also see an iconic ‘coast to mountain’ urban walk through an improved walking trail from a potential Sandy Bay ferry terminal to the Signal Station via the Lambert Rivulet track as well as a continuous coastal trail to connect Marieville Esplanade to Cartwright Creek.

“There is so much to get excited about and this discussion plan offers everyone a chance to have a say on the future of Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay.”

The Mount Nelson and Sandy Bay Neighbourhood Plan discussion paper is now available for feedback at the City of Hobart’s Your Say page until 1 January.

Pop up sessions and a community workshop are planned and will be advertised through the City’s social media platforms.