Plan for all-weather access to Hobart's Mt Wellington

Hobart City Council is to attempt to provide all-weather access to the summit of Mt Wellington and more visitor-friendly facilities in time for next winter.

Hobart newspaper The Mercury has reported that Council staff are investigating a shuttle bus service, capable of operating in severe ice and snow, which would transport passengers from the Springs or Fern Tree to the peak.

The Council is also looking into providing better heating and seating in the Pinnacle Observation Building as well as a manned information desk and a hot drink and snack bar.

Hobart Deputy Mayor Ron Christie instigated the report at a recent Council Parks Committee in a bid to increase visitor numbers to the mountain.

Hobart City Council has previously considered building a cable car to the Mt Wellington summit but Councillor Christie was quoted as stating "I do not believe a cable car is the immediate answer and cannot see this happening for many years, if it happens at all.

"With the appropriate snow buses equipped correctly, there is no reason why we cannot run a shuttle service from The Springs to the summit next winter."

Image: Mount Wellington in winter.

4th August 2010 - WORLD HERITAGE LISTING FOR CONVICT SITES