Arabic version: الموافقة على خطة فندق خليج الكنغر

According to ABC News, the Tasmanian Planning Commission has approved Chambroad’s contentious proposal for a five-star hotel at Kangaroo Bay in Bellerive, on Hobart’s eastern shore.

Chinese developer Chambroad plans a 155-room Kangaroo Bay Hotel as part of a $65 million development. The proposal includes restaurants and bars, a wellness centre, meeting and function facilities, publicly accessible open space, and new pedestrian and cycleways.

The Tasmanian government declared the proposal a major project on October 16, 2024, requiring assessment by an independent expert panel appointed by the planning commission. Chambroad project director Greg Hudson said the development was designed as a waterfront tourism and hospitality destination and would improve foreshore connections from Rosny to Bellerive Village.

Clarence City Council mayoral candidate Brendan Blomeley, who is seeking re-election, described the outcome as “extraordinarily disappointing”. He said the council remained committed to exercising its contractual right to buy back the land on behalf of the community.

The council’s attempt to buy back the site is before the Supreme Court. City of Clarence chief executive Ian Nelson said the planning decision does not affect proceedings seeking an order for specific performance of the contract. The matter is due to be heard in the Hobart Supreme Court in April.

Chambroad bought the land for $2.44 million in 2017 and has faced long-running community opposition and multiple delays. Hudson called on newly elected Clarence City councillors to enter constructive dialogue to resolve the litigation and allow construction to begin.