Potential sale of Frascati House

The Derwent Valley Council has announced it's in discussions with a potential buyer for the historic and heritage listed Frascati House in Willow Court at New Norfolk. 

Following on from recent expressions of interest council approved to dispose of the land at lot 5,the Avenue and George Street at its meeting on Thursday night.

Frascati House was built by Colonel John Burnett in 1834 on land opposite Royal Derwent Hospital and he and his wife and 9 children lived there for a period of time. From there on Frascati House was sold numerous times, initially leased to various medical superintendents working at Royal Derwent's Insane Asylum. 

Council says that the proposed redevelopment of Frascati House and adjoining land is said will offer a range of community benefits which includes-

• Restoring the heritage listed Frascati House with public access
• Consolidating a long term lease and support for the ongoing use of the Community Gardens on adjoining land.
• Add new housing opportunities to support both rental and new home buyers
• Create public spaces like BBQ areas , a new skate park and upgrade existing walking tracks.

David Bromfield, a long time Derwent Valley resident has expressed his interest in the redevelopment and restoration of the site. David's mother, Judy Bromfield served the Derwent Valley community for 23 years, first elected to council in 1991 , continuing through to 2014. Mrs Bromfield was passionate about protecting and preserving Willow Court and Frascati House which is why her son David has an interest in the project.

Derwent Valley Mayor Michelle Dracoulis said "David has put forward a proposal that includes the purchase of Frescati House and the adjoining land, which will include full restoration of the site. The proposal is to restore the house under the oversight of Heritage Tasmania, recognising its importance as part of Tasmania’s history T he proposal also outlines improvements to make the site more accessible and usable for the community, including better connections to the Lachlan River walking track, Tynwald, the Derwent River, the Cliffs Walk and the esplanade".

The mayor concluded by saying "This is a big moment for our town - grounded in history, shaped by community values, and with the opportunity to deliver something meaningful for future generations". 

Should the proposal progress to the planning and rezoning stages there will be formal opportunities for public submissions in line with statutory requirements. Council also advises further updates will be provided as the project progresses.