Robertson Hotel: An inside look at the proposed $50 million overhaul

From new eco-cabins perfect for destination weddings to a leisure centre, take a look at plans to turn the historic treasure The Robertson Hotel into a world-class resort.

The pool will be available to everyone if approved.

Owners of the historic landmark The Robertson Hotel says its proposed $50 million redevelopment of the historic property would see hundreds of new jobs created.

The development application before Wingecarribee Council outlines plans to restore the heritage-listed hotel and add a new wing to the hotel with 46 new rooms, along with 13 new eco-tourist cabins and seven eco-tourist villas located on the sprawling grounds.

“I have harboured a vision for this stunning historical building to restore its old-world charm and incorporate all the modern comforts our hotel guests expect from a world-class five-star resort,” owner Con Kotis said.

What it could look like ... The Robertson Hotel to get a $50 million development.

The addition of new eco-tourist accommodation was motivated by a desire to create environmentally sustainable tourism in the region, and to work with the existing surroundings.

“We’re dropping the cottages in the gaps between the trees and then keeping as many of the trees as we can, so the building fits in with the landscape,” Mr Kotis said.

The development, if approved, would create up to 250 new “clean tourism” jobs in the Southern Highlands, according to the hotelier.

As for the community reaction, Robertson Chamber of Commerce president Tim Hewitt said the community was very positive about the prospect of a redeveloped Robertson Hotel.

“People are quite excited by the prospect of it. It’ll a big employer when it’s up and running,” Mr Hewitt said.

“I think it’s a great thing. The alternative is that the thing is going to sit there and fall apart.”

The community is particularly excited by the leisure centre portion of the DA, Mr Kotis said.

The centre would include three indoor spas, treatment rooms, a gym and, most importantly for the Robertson locals, a pool.

The stunning property hosts weddings and other functions.

The community would be welcome to use the pool after some troubles with a community-funded pool project in the area.

“I said, ‘Why don’t we add our pool to our development to replace the pool that’s fallen down?’ so the residents can use a really good pool,” said Mr Kotis.

According to plans, The Robertson Hotel would also have a 300-conference centre, an “artist-in-residence” studio, a small amphitheatre, and an on-site museum to inform visitors about its rich history.

The historic Robertson Hotel is set for a $50 million overhaul.

Mr Kotis believes there might even be a link with the iconic local Don Bradman, who’s best friend was the builder of the hotel back in 1924. Being a carpenter, Mr Kotis thinks the legendary cricketer may have had a hand in the hotel’s construction.

If the DA is approved by the council, Mr Kotis and his partner Lisa Grant-Kotis would like the renovations to be finished by the centenary anniversary of the building in 2024.

The Wingecarribee council’s determination is expected to be delivered in February or March of this year.

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