Dunedin City Council is calling on interested parties to submit a proposal for the potential purchase of the city’s former Fortune Theatre property.
The Council has agreed to list the site at 231 Stuart Street on the open market in a Request for Proposal process.
“This is a unique opportunity for an interested buyer to transform the property and give it a new lease of life,” said Group Manager Property Services, Anna Nilsen.
First opened in 1870 and operated as the Trinity Methodist Church, the property was taken over for use as a professional theatre in 1978.
It is designed in a Gothic revival style and comprises three levels made from solid masonry and timber, and slate and copper roofing.
The Council has owned the property since 2000, and has maintained it over the years. It has remained unused since Fortune Theatre operations ceased in 2018.
“We’re looking for an individual, organisation or developer with the vision to breathe new life into this unique heritage property,” said Ms Nilsen.
The building’s central location, heritage character and flexible zoning means it can support a wide range of uses, she said.
“Whether that’s commercial, residential, hospitality, community or something entirely different, we’re interested in proposals that will benefit the city.”
It is classed as a Category 1 Historic Place and identified in the heritage schedule of the Dunedin City 2GP. The Request For Proposal process provides equal opportunity for prospective buyers from varying backgrounds and interests to present their ideas.
Ms Nilsen says applicants will also have to demonstrate they understand the building’s condition and the level of work required, and how it will be funded, as well as provide details on how their proposal will benefit the city, and the sale conditions such as the offer price.
Prospective buyers or interested parties can download a full information pack from the DCC website that includes the property title, building plans, a detailed building condition report, and an application form.
Interested parties are asked to submit proposals no later than 4pm on Monday, 17 August.
Once applications have closed, a report will be presented to Council to decide which proposal, if any, it wants to progress.
More information about the Request for Proposal process, and the requirements, can be found online: www.dunedin.govt.nz/231stuartstreet.
