Tasman House kicked out of its base at Nubeena

The Tasman Community House has been kicked out of its state government-owned premises at Nubeena because the building it operated from was deemed unsafe.

Homes Tasmania owns the building, which was a former teachers’ hostel before becoming the Tasman Neighbourhood House.

“An independent assessment found the Tasman Neighbourhood House building is no longer suitable for occupation as there are significant safety concerns that need to be addressed,” a Homes Tasmania spokesperson said.

“The decision to close the building was made to ensure the safety of staff, volunteers and service users.

“Safety remains our primary focus.”

Homes Tasmania said discussions about future options were still in their early stages.

“Services delivered by Tasman Neighbourhood House will continue to be available in alternative locations during this period.

“The House continues to have full access to the community gardens and storage sheds at the site.

“Homes Tasmania is working closely with Tasman Neighbourhood House and Tasman Council to support continuity of services and explore future options.

“We remain committed to working collaboratively with the House, local stakeholders and the Council to identify a suitable path forward.”

Tasman Mayor Rod MacDonald said he hoped to find a permanent home for the neighbourhood house.

“It has so many community centres, was a drop-in centre for youth, had a whole range for families and events, and had allied health support,” Cr MacDonald said.

“It’s so critical for our region and to have it shut down is such an awful thing to happen.”

Cr MacDonald said he was disappointed it had reached the point where the neighbourhood house had to abandon the building.

“It is a disgrace that it has been allowed to fall into its current state.

“On the outside it looks fine, but the fact it is no longer safe for human habitation says to me that someone has dropped the ball on maintenance.”