New Hobart CBD hotel recommended for approval

A Singaporean developer has had its plans approved to build a new luxury hotel in Hobart’s CBD.

Hobart City Council has approved the demolition and construction of a new 206-room hotel, restaurant and function centre at 179 Macquarie Street. But the development will have to adhere to no less than 29 conditions, including a maximum of 60 car parks on site.

The approval also depends on developing a construction management plan to ensure the existing heritage walls on Crowther’s Lane are not compromised by the installation of upgraded stormwater infrastructure.

The site for the latest development, which was the former Macquarie Centre and Myer homewares store, sits next door to the Ibis Styles Hotel, which is also owned by Fragrance.

The plans for the new nine-storey hotel include a public garden with “reflection pond”, swimming pool and gym.

“It is considered that the proposed development is consistent with and respectful to the overall townscape and streetscape character,” a council report said.

“The design of the proposed building is such that it complements the two markedly different buildings on either side.

“The proposed building is not considered to be individually prominent by virtue of height or bulk.”

Sheridan Randall - 13-08-19