Designs for the upgrade of the Albert Hall in Launceston have been released, featuring improved visitor facilities and a stronger connection to the City Park.
Originally built in 1891, the Albert Hall it is one of Launceston’s most significant heritage buildings in Launceston today. Featuring classical Victorian architecture and covering an area of 1,300 square metres, it also houses Australia’s largest surviving organ, predating 1860.
The $10 million redevelopment, designed by Terroir, is being delivered under the Launceston City Deal – a 10-year, $569 million partnership aimed at transforming Launceston into one of the country’s most liveable regional cities.
Tasmanian-founded architecture practice Terroir is the primary practice leading the redevelopment.
Image: Terroir
The redevelopment is intended to revitalize the building, while preserving the integrity of its historical features. The classical Victorian elements will be retained while ensuring the hall is fit for purpose as a contemporary meeting and exhibition space.
One of the major alterations to the hall will involve a significant redevelopment to the eastern wing. A new entrance and extension to the hall fronting City Park will “reimagine” the intrinsic connection originally planned between the hall and the park, Launceston’s acting mayor Danny Gibson said.
“Through the body of work Terroir has undertaken, their design concept is clear – to integrate Albert Hall with City Park, and to engage visitors more deeply and meaningfully,” he said.
“This was one of the key recommendations made by our independent heritage consultant during the development of the Heritage Conservation Management Plan.”
The redevelopment will be delivered in three stages: the first stage includes upgrades to the hall’s heating, lighting and audiovisual capabilities, while the second stage will see major improvements to the hall’s amenities and meeting rooms.
Stage one and two developments are expected to be completed this year, while stage three, which is the civil works, is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
The City of Launceston has engaged significantly with current users and operators following a four-week public engagement process in order to progress the project in a meaningful way. Gibson said the city will continue to engage with the local community moving forward.
Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Paul Fletcher has identified the hall as an important drawcard for the city’s regional identity.
“The redevelopment of one of Launceston’s most significant heritage buildings will serve the Northern Tasmanian community for many years to come, providing the region with a venue that will help attract local visitors and tourists,” Minister Fletcher said.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
