Plans released for $200m luxury hotel

PLANS for the $200 million luxury waterfront hotel set to become the latest jewel in the Territory’s tourism crown have been submitted to the development consent authority

The hotel design incorporates a $15 million skywalk connecting the waterfront and the city

PLANS for the $200 million luxury waterfront hotel set to become the latest jewel in the Territory’s tourism crown have been submitted to the development consent authority.

New designs have been released for public comment by developer the Chinese-owned Landbridge, who also have a 99-year lease to operate Darwin’s port including the cruise ship terminal at Fort Hill Wharf which adjoins the development.

Landbridge expects the luxury hotel will be the key driver behind the waterfront development, which will also boast residential property in a later stage.

The luxury hotel design incorporates a $15 million skywalk connecting the waterfront and the city and better public access with more than 1.5km of new and landscaped footpaths and cyclepaths throughout the proposed road network included.

The Gunner Government set aside funding for the skywalk, which includes a lift shaft, in this year’s budget.

Pedestrian paths will be designed to enhance the historical and cultural understanding of Darwin and offer opportunities for “meaningful way finding and storytelling”.

The Westin-run hotel will offer 237 rooms across its eight levels. It will be Darwin’s second hotel with unobstructed sea views. Skycity Casino is the only other property to enjoy unobstructed sea views.

Features include an infinity pool and a rooftop specialty bar and restaurant.

There will also be a lobby bar and a signature restaurant on the ground floor.

Access will be protected and maintained to the cruise ship terminal, the Deckchair Cinema and waterfront residents during construction.

Public comment on the plans will close on June 8.