FH#2 - TREASURY SQUARE.

When discussing how best to overcome the perception that Macquarie and Davey Streets represent a fundamental physical barrier to free movement between the CBD and the Cove, the talk generally seems to revolve around the hugely expensive and disruptive idea of sending either the traffic or the pedestrian below ground so that uninterrupted access is provided. At the same time, there is ongoing discussions as to the possible future use of the Treasury building at State level.

For followers of Better Hobart, you may already know that the leasing and public re-use of the building as part of a much more ambitious scheme of public realm regeneration forms part of our '10 things for a Better Hobart'. The intention is to re-model Murray Street between Macquarie and Davey as a new civic square. One befitting its setting as some of Hobart's most impressive and grand set pieces of architecture. One intended to break the mental barrier and create a link between the two parts of the city as a pleasant and flexible space of civic pride and engagement. 

Above is the original animation created by Nick Booth of nbd-space, the Hobart based Urban Designer who first put forward the idea of a new Treasury Square. Forming part of a wider collection of spaces including the award winning Collins Court for which Nick was the Urban Design consultant and co-conceptual designer, the animation paints a picture of Hobart respecting its spaces and its pedestrians. Importantly, it also shows an attempt to find common ground between having a vibrant public realm and a major transport route without one compromising the other.