There can be no argument that it has been a long time coming but now that it has finally been tabled in the Legislative Assembly there is light at the end of the tunnel for those who have long campaigned for the hall's protection.

The Friends of Albert Hall have described the final plan as a major achievement in ensuring the hall remains in public management.

The result is a win for people power following a revolt in 2007 when the National Capital Authority planned a whiz-bang new precinct around the hall.

The authority proposed to open up the land surrounding it for commercial purposes such as tourist facilities and cafes.

A "landmark" building of up to eight storeys was to be constructed on the northern section of Flynn Place fronting Commonwealth Avenue and a public pedestrian plaza would be constructed on the lake foreshore.

Outrage over the plan led to the creation of the Friends of Albert Hall lobby group, the refurbishment of the hall – and most importantly the shelving of the NCA's plans in 2009.

Albert Hall has an important place in Canberra's history as the unofficial town hall for the city's first 40 years and it was the only venue in the city for audiences of more than 700 people until the Canberra Theatre was built in 1965.

After the building fell into disrepair in the 1980s the former federal Labor government and current ACT government funded its restoration and 10 years ago began working on a management plan.

Planning Minister Mick Gentleman – himself a Friend of Albert Hall – has previously defended the time taken to develop the plan of management due to the need to consult with all the stakeholders.

At first glance it appears the 10-year plan was worth the wait as long as the ACT government quickly proceeds with implementing it – starting with establishing a reference group.

Naysayers might suggest this is another example of Canberrans being anti-development but this is one building that deserves the protection from the urbanisation going on in other parts of the ACT.