Lease negotiations at Hilton Brisbane put bookings on hold
Job security issues have been raised among staff at Hilton Brisbane, as lease negotiations drag on.
The hotel has stopped taking bookings beyond September 30, leaving employees and potential guests uncertain about the hotel’s future.
An error message for bookings post-September 30 indicates there is no availability. The issue is tied to a lease dispute between Hilton and the property’s owner, ISPT, a superannuation-backed property fund manager.
“Their jobs are at risk, and they’re just hoping it gets resolved,” an anonymous staff member told The Courier-Mail.
Hilton and ISPT released a joint statement to alleviate fears, saying the pause in bookings is due to refurbishment plans, not lease issues.
“As part of the redevelopment of 150 Elizabeth, the iconic Harry Seidler-designed hotel currently known as the Hilton Brisbane is being retained and refurbished,” the statement read.
Hilton and ISPT have stated the hotel remains open and operational during this period.
It is understood that negotiations are positive and will be resolved shortly.
The hotel plans to resume bookings soon.
ISPT confirmed that refurbishment options are being investigated so there is minimal disruption to guests.
A timeline for bookings to reopen has yet to be determined.
Jonathan Jackson, 19th September 2024
