The City of Hobart seeks proposals for the adaptive reuse of the Dorney House site near Sandy Bay in Hobart. A nationwide expression of interest has been issued to identify a proponent from private, government or community sectors willing to deliver the project.
The family home of the late architect J.H. Esmond Dorney, the Dorney House was built in 1978. It was acquired by the City of Hobart in 2006 along with the remnants of the historic Fort Nelson and 35 hectares of hilltop bushland in response to the community’s desire to preserve the Sandy Bay skyline and the city’s landscape values. The house has significant design and architectural value while the site’s cultural importance is recognised by its inclusion in the Tasmanian Heritage Register.
Following a number of studies conducted by the City of Hobart of the site, the condition of buildings and potential operating models to enable greater public access, the Council decided to run a nationwide EOI to identify a project proponent to deliver an adaptive reuse for the site.
Expression of Interest for Adaptive Reuse of Dorney House
The expression of interest is open to the private, government and community sectors. The proposal should demonstrate benefit to the community and public access to the site; ideally include activities that cover both the house (Dorney House) and the remnant fort (Fort Nelson); and retain and respect the architectural and historical values of the site.
Proponents will need to demonstrate strong business acumen and any proposal must be underpinned by a robust business plan. The Council seeks expressions of interest based on a long-term lease being allocated to the successful proponent. The City of Hobart is running the EoI process, which is being overseen by a Project Steering Committee consisting of Directors and senior Council personnel. The committee will act as the EOI evaluation panel.
The EOI will be open for 9 weeks, commencing on 22 October and concluding on 21 December 2016.
The EOI is being administered via Tenderlink where the EOI Information Pack can be accessed and any questions posted via the Tenderlink Forum.
