COVID-19 delays opening of new Toowoomba CBD hotel

THE launch of Toowoomba’s newest hotel in the CBD has been delayed by several months due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

THE launch of Toowoomba's newest hotel in the CBD has been delayed by several months due to the outbreak of coronavirus.

The Oaks Toowoomba Hotel, which has been built where the old Gladstone Hotel used to stand on Ruthven St, was set for completion and opening later this month.

But the five-storey, 102-room property will now open its doors in July, as the region continues to grapple with social distancing restrictions and a tough economic climate.

Minor Hotels' Australia and New Zealand COO Craig Hooley said the decision was made with the health and safety of guests and staff in mind.

"Our utmost priority is the health and safety of our staff and guests, and we are taking every precaution to help flatten the curve and ensure our communities can begin to travel again in Australia in the near future," he said.

Building developer Kenneth Wagner, who has spearheaded the project for several years, said he was disappointed to have to delay the opening, but realised it was the right option.

Project director Kenneth Wagner and Minor Hotel Group chief operation officer Craig Hooley at the Oaks Hotel, the site of the former Gladstone Hotel. Picture: Nev Madsen. Thursday, 24th Oct, 2019.

"Although we are disappointed at having to delay the opening of our development, we are excited at both the quality of the accommodation product and the high calibre of business this development brings to the CBD," he said.

"We are looking forward to being able to showcase our product once we receive advice from the Federal Government and relevant health authorities that it is safe to do so."

The hotel, which is Minor Hotels' first regional expansion, will include a restaurant, contemporary pub and retailers and service providers.