Redevelopment of Launceston’s Albert Hall eastern wing considered

The City of Launceston will this week consider a Development Application for the redevelopment of the Albert Hall’s eastern wing.

The Albert Hall is considered one of Launceston’s most significant heritage buildings and was listed on the Register of the National Estate in 1978.

The proposed redevelopment is part of an $11.58 million upgrade of the hall, which also includes improved heating, lighting and audio visual equipment.

Upgrades were approved in 1980, including the addition of the two-storey eastern wing, understage dressing rooms, acoustic works, improved access facilities, and other general refurbishments.

The proposed redevelopment of the eastern wing will include a new reception area, foyer, cafe and function kitchen at ground floor level, and a new foyer and meeting room at the first floor level.

The redevelopment will also allow the construction of a new accessible entrance, the installation of a lift, as well as a redeveloped loading bay at the south-east corner of the building.

Launceston Mayor Albert van Zetten noted “The proposed eastern wing redevelopment has been designed with the stated objective of providing improved facilities and connectivity with City Park.

“This is a significant planning application for Launceston involving one of our most important heritage buildings.”