Launceston is set to welcome a new five-star designer hotel, with plans for a 190-room development in the city centre unveiled.
The hotel would be built at the Paterson Street car park site and, if approved, will feature a range of facilities including restaurants, a spa and function spaces.
The project is a collaboration between local property developer Creative Property Holdings (CPH) and an international hotel partner, the name of whom is yet to be announced.
CPH Managing Director Chris Billing said the hotel would support increased tourism to Launceston and surrounding areas, giving visitors a new choice of accommodation in a central location.
“We believe a hotel of this size and international stature will be a game-changer for the Launceston CBD, supporting tourism demand and increasing visitor spend in the city and surrounding areas,” he said.
“Over the past seven years, Launceston has significantly trailed behind Hobart in terms of new high-quality hotel rooms, adding only one-fifth of the new rooms that Hobart has introduced.”
The hotel is projected to create around 130 full-time jobs and contribute $76 million to the local economy annually.
During construction, the project is expected to generate 348 direct and indirect jobs and contribute over $212 million to the local economy.
Architect Telha Clarke will lead the design of the project, with Tasmanian project management firm Skyscape overseeing construction.
Speaking on Tuesday morning, Premier Jeremy Rockliff said he thinks the development “looks great”.
“The private sector plays an important role in our tourism and hospitality sector, and I want to acknowledge Creative Holdings commitment to Northern Tasmania.”
CPH say they plan to submit a formal development application to the Launceston City Council in the coming months, anticipating construction to begin in the second half of 2025 if approved.
