Future of Paterson Barracks to be explored

Published on 28 June 2017

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten has welcomed a Federal Government proposal to explore future uses for the Paterson Barracks site in Launceston as part of the Launceston City Deal.

The historic Paterson Barracks played a critically important role in the development of the city of Launceston and Tasmania, and Mayor van Zetten said it was pleasing the Government had indicated that heritage considerations would be at the forefront of any sale proposal.

The sale of the historic barracks would open up the site for other uses and support the revitalisation of Launceston's CBD.

Mayor Albert van Zetten said the proposal represented an exciting opportunity for the city, and that community consultation would be important to guide future use of the site.

"The barracks occupy a very strategic parcel of land in Launceston, located between the CBD and the riverfront," Mayor van Zetten said.

"Opening that property up to other uses could be a game-changer for the city, and we're keen to see future proposed uses that could be located on that site.

"There's no doubt this site is important from a heritage perspective as well and we're pleased the Federal Government recognises this and is eager to see those historic values protected.

"The proposal would also allow the construction of a new $5m purpose-built barracks at Youngtown for the Army Reserves 16 Troop.

"We're also excited by the announcement of $250,000 in funding for a feasibility study into a Defence Innovation and Design Precinct at the University of Tasmania's Newnham campus, a proposal with fantastic potential.

"These are exciting outcomes from the Launceston City Deal, which the City of Launceston has strongly advocated for with our State and Federal representatives, and we look forward to more positive outcomes for our city going forward."