Request for Proposals for 231 Stuart Street (former Fortune Theatre) now open

The Dunedin City Council (DCC) agreed to list the property on the open market in a Request for Proposal process.

Group Manager Property Services Anna Nilsen says “This is a unique opportunity for an interested buyer to transform the property and give it a new lease of life,”

The DCC has owned the property at 231 Stuart Street since 2000, and has continued to maintain and repair it over the years. It formerly operated as the Fortune Theatre, but it has remained unused since 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,”

The building's central location, heritage character and flexible zoning means it can support a wide range of uses.

“Whether that's commercial, residential, hospitality, community or something entirely different, we're interested in proposals that will benefit the city,” Ms Nilsen says.

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.

More information about the Request for Proposal process, and the requirements, can be found online: www.dunedin.govt.nz/231stuartstreet

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.

First opened in 1870 and operated as the Trinity Methodist Church, the property at 231 Stuart Street was taken over for use as a professional theatre in 1978 before it was closed in 2018.

It is designed in a Gothic revival style and comprises three levels made from solid masonry and timber, and slate and copper roofing.

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