What’s next for Cambridge Hotel site in Rockhampton CBD?

IT seems the site could remain vacant for some time, with no development applications yet lodged with Rockhampton Regional Council.

GOING UP? An impression of what a 12-storey building on the Cambridge Hotel demolition site might look like. Owner of the site, Rick Pisaturo, says the block will be redeveloped but refuses to provide any details. Picture: Allan Reinikka Rokabuilding

A NEW high rise could soon be added to Rockhampton's evolving skyline.

Speculation from reliable local sources suggests that the site of the former Cambridge Hotel, which was demolished last week, could one day be home to a 12-storey apartment block.

But it seems the site could remain vacant for some time, with no development applications yet lodged with Rockhampton Regional Council.

The long-standing Rockhampton business unexpectedly stopped operating in early June, which left 20 people without a job. A demolition application for the site was approved on October 15.

Owner Rick Pisaturo has previously declined to comment and Rockhampton Mayor Margaret Strelow has previously said developers had "big plans" for the site.

"I'm really not at liberty to say anything more at this stage other than that what the developer has outlined to me is very similar to what the owner outlined to me when he closed the Cambridge a few months ago," Cr Strelow told The Morning Bulletin in October.

"I'm very much encouraged by the confidence and ambition for the site."

Lance Baxter, from Baxters Real Estate in Bolsover St, said a combination of accommodation and dining would work well on the site.

He said the hotel had previously been popular with visiting sporting teams, something which a new development could also capitalise on.

Mr Baxter said the site was in the "perfect location," close to Browne Park, the showgrounds and other activities.

He said any developments on the site had the potential to really add to Rockhampton's economy and could work well with council's plans for the riverbank redevelopment.

Originally published as What’s next for Cambridge Hotel site in Rockhampton CBD?