5ive Co pitches Caloundra Hotel with Marriott International as operator

A boutique hotel has been proposed for a prime Sunshine Coast site, garnering interest from a major international hotel operator. PHOTOS, VIDEO.

Plans for a 27m high boutique resort complex have been revealed for a site in Caloundra, with interest from an international brand to manage the “first-class” hotel.

Project Urban have lodged a development application with Sunshine Coast Council on behalf of 5ive Co to build a resort complex at 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra.

The 635sq m site is currently occupied by a two-storey house in a tourist accommodation zone, with various apartment and resort style developments in proximity.

Application documents show the “boutique” hotel will offer 77 rooms with a rooftop reception and communal area.

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

The documents include a letter of interest addressed to 5ive Co director Jamie Baldwin from hotel brand Marriott International to operate a “first-class” hotel on a 25-year agreement.

The letter from the hotel brand describes itself as “the world’s largest hotel company” with 9000 properties across 30 brands in 141 countries.

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

It also expresses interest in a potential second hotel offering in Mooloolaba to provide between 70 and 150 rooms, while take note of 5ive Co’s “inspiring vision” as a “new lifestyle hotel brand.”

The development will be subject to public consultation as the proposed building will exceed the 15m height limit.

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

Documents reference council’s agenda report notes from August which outline an urgent need for more accommodation in the region, with challenges and constraints in attracting investment for hotel developments.

The council’s draft Temporary Local Planning Instrument seeking new hotel developments is in response to a shortfall of 2450 hotel room for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, documents state.

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

The developer has argued the project will “satisfy part of the recognised need” for hotels in the region, consistent with council’s Accommodation Hotel Incentives Strategic Policy.

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

Artist impressions of the hotel proposed for 31 Esplanade Bulcock Beach, Caloundra. Photo: Fraser and Partners/5ive Co

Plans show the single building will be eight storeys high with two levels of basement parking and a lobby, reception and cafe on the ground floor.

An outdoor seating area, pool and rooftop reception area are also included in the design.

The site’s positioning will offer “spectacular view lines and vistas” of Bulcock Beach and the passage.

Documents state the proposed building has been developed to the “highest architectural standards” in touch with Caloundra’s “essence” and beach atmosphere.

The proposed site is located directly opposite Bulcock Beach and its surrounding precinct, including barbecues and seating areas as well as within walking distance to Caloundra’s shopping and entertainment offerings.