Aquis Australia has unveiled plans for a new AUD$440 million hotel on a prime beachfront position in Surfers Paradise.
The company says it wants the project to become “a benchmark for luxury accommodation in the Asia Pacific region and attract a new generation of wealthy travellers to the Gold Coast”.
The project is planned for the site of the current Pacific Point apartment complex and adjoining properties at 3464-3466 Main Beach Parade.
The current tower will be demolished to make way for a 48-storey complex that will include 580 hotel rooms and suites as well as the Gold Coast’s premier dining and entertainment facilities.
Aquis says a Development Application has been lodged with local authorities and during construction, the project is expected to create more than 850 jobs and once operational the new hotel is expected to generate more than 200 full time positions.
Aquis Australia Chairman Tony Fung said the project is the only new, large-scale hotel currently planned for South East Queensland not linked to an integrated resort/casino project and the property would be the “first truly six-star beachfront hotel in Australia and target ‘super luxe’ travellers from around the world”.
“Our goal was to create a hotel that would become a destination in itself, something that is instantly recognisable and synonymous with luxury,” he said.
“The fact we have been able to secure this incredible site on the beachfront for the project will only enhance its attraction to domestic and international visitors.
“We have been very vocal in our belief that the Gold Coast has the potential to expand into exciting new markets and attract a new generation of luxury traveller if it can provide accommodation and facilities that match and exceed anything else the world has to offer.”
He said the fact the project was not linked to a casino would give the new hotel a unique position.
“Not all new visitors to Queensland will want to stay in a casino,” he said. “Our project’s unique beachfront location will make the Gold Coast’s beautiful beaches the star attraction, not pokies.
“We will be targeting travellers that want to experience the best restaurants, the best beaches, the best accommodation away from the hustle and bustle of the integrated resorts.”
Gold Coast Mayor, Tom Tate, welcomed Aquis Australia’s AUD$440 investment.
“As Mayor I am all about jobs, jobs, jobs for Gold Coasters. As part of our plan to revitalise investment throughout the city, Council is committed to making the necessary decisions to revive the Gold Coast’s ‘have a go’ spirit and economic prosperity,” Cr Tate said.
“One way we are doing this is by growing business confidence and creating an environment which will grow jobs.
“The best days of our city are still ahead and I would say to businesses out there to just look at Aquis’ plans – the timing is perfect to take a second look at the Gold Coast and invest your time and energy in our city,”
“I’m proud to say I am leading a Council that is on the side of business because we know a strong economy means a strong community and Aquis Australia is giving a huge vote of confidence in this shared vision for the future of the Gold Coast.”
Gold Coast Tourism Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Martin Winter, said the new hotel was great news for the Gold Coast.
“This sort of investment underscores the long term confidence highly experienced investors continue to have in the destination,” he said.
“A six star hotel right on the beach will appeal to the increasing number of luxury-seeking visitors and raise the Surfers Paradise bar even higher.”
Fung said the beachfront location provided a key point of difference in the competitive market for high-end tourists.
“The Gold Coast’s beaches are renowned as some of the cleanest and most beautiful in the world and they will play an important role in positioning the resort to international visitors,” he said.
“Our architects have come up with a striking design that will be an elegant addition to the Surfers Paradise skyline and complement the stunning natural beauty at the front door.”
The project has been designed by leading international architects Woods Bagot.
Aquis says it has spent nearly a year negotiating with all owners in the existing tower to acquire all the apartments.
The upper tower of the project includes a total of 580 rooms with a mix of luxury hotel rooms, suites, two-bedroom suites, deluxe, super-deluxe suites and large penthouse suites.
The ground floor lobby atrium will be spread over three levels and include a spectacular $2.5 million custom art installation. Entertainment will include five world-class restaurants from the world’s top chefs. There will also be a range of exclusive bars, dining areas and karaoke offerings.
The atrium rooftop will include an exciting Asian street-style food market, pool and high-end executive club lounge. The main hotel pool will feature a glass bottom that can be viewed from within the hotel lobby. The tower rooftop will include an outdoor cinema.
Pending final approvals, the project is expected to start construction in 2018.