Good Intent Hotel: Development proposal for overhaul of pub on Armidale St in South Grafton

A Clarence Valley pub could soon receive a major makeover, with a brand new beer garden and kids play area just some of the expected additions. See the full plans.

The Good Intent Hotel. Picture: Nathan Edwards

A historic Clarence Valley watering hole has grand ambitions to expand and upgrade its current venue.

The Good Intent Hotel, located at 63-65 Armidale St, South Grafton, has lodged a development application with the Clarence Valley Council for alterations and additions to the existing hotel, including increased carparking spaces and a new beer garden.

The application, lodged on behalf of the North Coast Hotel Group, cites plans for internal upgrades to the current bar, kitchen and toilets.

Artist impression of the proposed redevelopment of the Good Intent Hotel.

There are also plans for a new office, audiovisual room, terrace within the existing public bar, a beer garden and kids play area.

The proposed redevelopment of the pub, built in 1957, would also include the construction of almost 90 off-street car parks.

The proposed upgrade would be in the public interest, according to the developer, because it would help create a better social space for the community to gather.

A satellite image of South Grafton's Good Intent Hotel.

“The proposed alterations and additions to the Good Intent Hotel will help ensure the pub can continue to trade as a viable business whilst continuing to serve the needs of people within the neighbourhood and broader community,” planning documents state.

“The proposal results in an enhanced facility for dining and a suitable play space for children.

The proposed modifications will result in an improved place to socially meet, engage with social events, eat, drink, watch and listen in a relaxed setting.”

The hotel made headlines in 2022, when it was a reported a cleaner was left rattled after being threatened with a knife during an armed robbery.

The development application is being assessed by the council and will be determined in the coming months.

Members of the public can to lodge submissions until May 22