Toowoomba’s Shamrock Hotel Motel set for renovation, name change to Ruthven Street Tavern

A popular, and sometimes infamous, Toowoomba CBD venue and motel looks set for a major overhaul that includes a new name and exterior.

A major watering hole in the Toowoomba CBD could be undergoing a significant facelift and name change soon.

Plans have been lodged with the Toowoomba Regional Council to rename and revitalise the Shamrock Hotel Motel.

Designs submitted by applicant Simtech Creations Pty Ltd feature a new front facade as well as the name “Ruthven St Tavern”.

The application will make alterations to the current signage, along with new outside walls sporting “subway tiles”.

There will also be a new projecting wall sign installed as part of the revamp.

According to the planning report by Zone Planning Group, changes to the exterior would be matched by improvements inside the venue on Ruthven Street.

“The Shamrock Hotel currently occupies this site and is the subject of the proposed advertising devices,” the report said.

“The Shamrock Hotel is currently undergoing various minor improvements to the internal layout and facade treatments facing both street frontages.

“The proposed signage uses innovative designs which reflect the new proposed brand identity of the ‘Ruthven Street Tavern’ while also seeking approval for the replacement of the existing signage structure above the awning as stated above, which had aged and considered to be a safety hazard.”

Because the venue is not changing its use, the applicant submitted an operational works proposal, requiring no community consultation.

The Shamrock Hotel, known as a popular and sometimes infamous licensed venue in the CBD, hit the market last year for $6.75m. It was last sold in 2013 to a Gold Coast company for more than $5m, according to RP Data.

The pub currently includes a bar, bistro, dining area and gaming room with dozens of machines.

It also includes a 32-room motel at the rear.

Zone Planning Group was contacted for comment about the application.

Originally published as Toowoomba’s Shamrock Hotel Motel set for renovation, name change to Ruthven Street Tavern