Main construction tender released for Launceston’s new $43.6 million sport and recreation hub

The main tender for the construction of Launceston’s new $43.6 million northern suburbs community, sport and recreation centre - The Hub - at 316-320 Invermay Road, Mowbray has been released.

The Hub, funded through a partnership between the Tasmanian Government, Australian Government and the City of Launceston, is aimed at addressing a critical shortage of indoor sporting facilities in Launceston. The Hub is anticipated to deliver Tasmania’s largest multi‑purpose indoor community sporting and recreation facility with a building area over 10,000 square meters.

Infrastructure Tasmania is seeking tenders from suitably qualified construction contractors to build the new centre after the Development Application was approved by the City of Launceston in November 2023.

Local Tasmanian firm, Anstie Constructions Pty Ltd, were appointed to deliver the Stage 1 Early Works Package. Works include demolition, site remediation and limited services works. These works began in September 2023.

Tasmanian Acting Minister for Sport and Recreation, Roger Jaensch noted “We have set a bold target of Tasmania becoming the healthiest state in Australia and we recognise this requires suitable infrastructure.

“The Hub will provide a much-needed home for netball in the North, indoor multi-use court facilities and a range of other recreational infrastructure, helping to improve community health and wellbeing.

“Not only this, but The Hub will improve access to local community, sport and recreation infrastructure and programs in the northern suburbs while giving locals a safe place to meet.

“The Hub’s design has been guided by several key principles including well-being, security and safety.

“The design includes accessible and DDA compliant amenities, including accessible changerooms as well as more traditional options.

“Green energy initiatives will also be built into the centre including a 90kw solar system with battery storage, charging locations for electric vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters, and several derelict buildings will be rejuvenated and repurposed.”

The Hub will include:

• Four designated indoor courts for netball operated by the Northern Tasmania Netball Association (NTNA).

• Three indoor multi-use courts for basketball, volleyball, futsal, table tennis, wheelchair sports and other sporting and community recreational activities to address the current court shortfall.

• Rock climbing, gym, boxing and weightlifting facilities including an outdoor activities area.

• A designated gymnastics area to provide a wide range of programs for people of all ages.

• Café, commercial kitchen, and spectator amenities (grandstand seating) with change room facilities and onsite parking.

• Youth engagement, community education and counselling areas.

• Multipurpose office space that can be used for meetings, training and administration.

• Open space for community gatherings of up to 800 people to come together offering diverse services and opportunities.

• Safe pedestrian access off Invermay Road and connectivity to the Hub from Mowbray Heights Primary School.

• Electric charging facilities for vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters.

Philp Lighton Architects has been appointed to provide design and contract management services for the project.

The Hub is expected to open in late 2025.

The tender was released on Saturday 27th January 2024 and will close on 1st March 2024. Further information, including prequalification requirements and how to tender, is available on the tenders website 

Further information on the Hub design is available on the Infrastructure Tasmania website

Images. Concept renders. Credit: Infrastructure Tasmania