What's Happening?
Plans for a $150 million chocolate experience have been approved by a local council near the Cadbury factory in Hobart's northern suburbs. The project, inspired by the inside and outside of chocolate bars, will feature a reinvented chocolate factory with
immersive, multi-sensory worlds and a chocolate lab. The experience will include a three-hour ticketed journey offering what developers Simon Currant and Associates describe as 'the world's most extraordinary chocolate experience.' The development is expected to become a major tourism drawcard for Tasmania, similar to the MONA art gallery, which significantly boosted local tourism. The state government has committed $12 million to the project, with the remainder of the funding to be sourced from the private sector and loans. The chocolate experience is expected to open in late 2028.
Why It's Important?
The approval of this project is significant for Tasmania's tourism industry, as it promises to attract visitors from around the world, much like the MONA art gallery did. The development is expected to create jobs and stimulate the local economy, providing a new attraction that could draw chocolate enthusiasts and tourists alike. The project also represents a substantial investment in the region, with the state government contributing $12 million. This initiative could set a precedent for future tourism-related developments in Tasmania, highlighting the potential for creative and immersive experiences to drive economic growth.
What's Next?
The developers will now focus on securing the remaining funding from private investors and loans. Construction is expected to begin soon, with the aim of opening the chocolate experience by late 2028. As the project progresses, it will be important to monitor its impact on local tourism and the economy. The success of this venture could encourage further investment in similar attractions, potentially transforming Tasmania into a hub for unique and immersive tourist experiences.
