Under the Liberal Government, Tasmania is open to new ideas, open to new investment and open for business.
For a number of years, a number of people have put forward ideas about alternative uses for the Treasury building.
It is no secret that Hobart has a hotel bed shortage and it is no secret that there is strong interest in the Treasury building from hotel developers.
This is a Government that welcomes good ideas, that welcomes development, investment and jobs. This is a Government that wants to throw off the shackles of the previous do-nothing Labor-Green Government and unlock Tasmania’s potential.
It’s time to look sensibly at what good ideas are out there for the Treasury building and whether or not they stack up.
The Government has asked for independent, expert advice on whether or not it would be suitable to consider making the Treasury building available for other uses, including hotel accommodation.
We have also asked for that advice to consider whether there are any other Government-owned buildings that could also be considered for other uses as well.
The Government believes that Tasmania should be open for business, and an attractive place for investment and development, because that leads to economic growth, job creation and more opportunities in the State.
You only have to look at the Parliament Square development to see a fantastic example of a modern development that is going to make an area off limits to most people into a fantastic community space that will also provide significant benefits both to the local economy and the culture of Hobart.
But to be clear, no decision has been made to sell the Treasury building and if any decision is made it would only be made following a proper, transparent process.