Iconic Sydney pub presses ahead with hotel wing
Despite strong local opposition, the owner of the iconic Harbord Beach Hotel in Sydney's Freshwater is pushing forward with plans to add a 37-room hotel wing.
The proposal, which would see a three-story building constructed in the pub's current carpark, has faced significant community backlash.
Around 110 submissions opposing the development were sent to the Northern Beaches Council during the public exhibition period. Locals worry the new wing, described as "monolithic", will detract from the character of the art deco pub, known locally as the "Harbord Hilton," which opened in 1928. Concerns have also been raised about the suitability of a hotel in a primarily residential area.
Despite the council voting against the rezoning proposal in November, the owner, Glenn Piper, has now taken the matter directly to the NSW Planning Department for review. The department has subsequently requested an independent assessment from the Sydney North Planning Panel. If the panel finds merit in the proposal, the department will issue a Gateway Determination, establishing a panel to recommend to the Planning Minister whether the rezoning should be approved.
Piper, who purchased the hotel in 2019, plans to connect the new accommodation to the existing pub and bottle shop, offering 37 rooms, a pool, a gym, and basement parking for 72 vehicles. He has previously stated that the pub historically offered accommodation and continues to receive inquiries for hotel rooms. The hotel released a statement on Tuesday.
A statement from the hotel said: “Harbord Hotel has always been a place for locals and visitors to connect.
“Our proposal to restore accommodation reflects this, offering a thoughtful, much-needed option for those visiting Freshwater, whether to see family, enjoy the coastline or experience local culture.
“We consulted council staff before lodging the DA and are approaching this with the community front of mind, providing increased parking for the Freshwater Basin and ensuring a sensitive, respectful approach to heritage and design.
“Our deep love for Freshwater, its history, and its community has always guided us at Harbord. This commitment remains at the heart of everything we do as we continue to shape its future.”
Jonathan Jackson, 12th February 2025
