The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to preserving Tasmania’s built heritage for its cultural, historical and tourism importance to the State.
Franklin House is one of Northern Tasmania’s historic gems – it was built in 1838 by former convict Britton Jones (a Launceston brewer and innkeeper) and from 1842-1866 it was used as a school for boys.
In 1960 Franklin House was the first heritage property taken over by the National Trust in Tasmania.
Late last year a convict-built wall on the southern boundary was deemed as dangerous and part of the wall was taken down to make the area safe.
Reconstruction of the wall was unfortunately beyond the financial capabilities of the magnificent volunteer team that already contributes about 12,449 volunteer hours to the house and gardens every year
The Tasmanian Government was lobbied by Launceston Aldermen Simon Wood and Robin McKendrick about a reinstatement plan and through negotiations with general manager Robert Dobrzynski a 50-50 funding proposal was agreed between Council and the Government.
It is hoped that the $80,000 wall reconstruction will help restore the historical integrity of the site and maintain Franklin House as a heritage tourism icon for Tasmania and in particular the greater Launceston area.