Macquarie House, Hobart

Immediate risk of destruction

·         Architectural and social heritage significance

·         Built as a 3-storey house with battlements on top to deter the French when they came up the Derwent River

·         Integral part of Hobart’s history

Built in 1815 as a private residence and used as a "de facto" Government House by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, it was converted to one of Hobart's earliest residential hotels in 1821, and regarded as the smartest hotel in Hobart Town. Architecturally and socially significant, it has been a seminary, Boarding House, school and residence.

Threat:

The current owner has proposed a number of more intensive uses of land adjoining Macquarie House and is appealing a former decision not to approve a 10-storey tower which if allowed would engulf Macquarie House.

Desired Outcome / Vision:

The future of this early house, now on prime real estate, is of great public concern. Any adjoining development must recognise its heritage significance so that the original context and streetscape is conserved.

Fate / Outcome:
Stable