Mulpha Australia Limited has today (22 Feb) unveiled its long term vision for a AUD$200-plus million upgrade to InterContinental Sydney.
The proposed upgrades include to all existing public areas, functions rooms, restaurants and 509 guest rooms and a new, 900 square metre grand ballroom, which will feature unique views of Circular Quay and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
“We are very excited by our proposed transformation of one of Sydney’s best loved and pre-eminent hotels,” said Mulpha Australia CEO, Greg Shaw.
“This redevelopment will preserve and enhance the position of the InterContinental Sydney as the city’s best located 5-star property as well as boosting Sydney’s international tourism infrastructure and appeal to host major events.”
Mulpha’s plans are contained within its Stage 1 State Significant Development application recently lodged with the NSW Department of Planning and Environment and are expected to go on public exhibition for comment shortly.
The proposed upgrade marks the most significant improvements to InterContinental Sydney for over three decades and will keep the property at the top of the market as an integrated and vibrant luxury hotel commensurate with its iconic location in one of the world’s most sought after destinations.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity for InterContinental Sydney and a boon for future travellers to Sydney,” said InterContinental Hotels Group’s (IHG) Chief Operating Officer for Australasia and Japan, Karin Sheppard.
“The proposed upgrade is a testament to our partnership with Mulpha Australia and reinforces our mutual commitment to provide our guests a world-class luxury experience in Sydney.
“With an already unrivalled position on Sydney’s Harbour, the proposed development will see a significant shift in the way we view the role of hotels – moving from luxury accommodation into a complete tourism experience for both our domestic and international guests.
“The new ballroom and function facilities will be the only hotel event space in Sydney to boast iconic views to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay,” Sheppard said.
Mulpha’s design features upgrades to the hotel’s 509 guest rooms, corridors, lobbies, restaurants and notably the creation of a new, 900 square metre grand ballroom on Level 10 extending out from the hotel tower over the adjoining Mulpha-owned Transport House building. In addition, Mulpha’s plans provide for an expansion of the award winning rooftop.
Club InterContinental lounge, offering 270 degree views from the Sydney Harbour Bridge around to Botany Bay, a drawcard for international guests.
Mulpha’s plans look to preserve and enhance the important heritage aspects of the former Treasury Building which forms part of the hotel site.
“With the proposal expected to go on public exhibition shortly, Mulpha will continue consultations including with heritage, tourism, community and planning stakeholders to progress its application,” Shaw said.
Mulpha’s proposal has a total estimated capital investment value in excess of $200 million, expecting to generate around 220 jobs in Sydney during construction, with another 100 when complete.
Mulpha’s vision will deliver significant benefits to the Sydney and NSW economies while also establishing a vibrant new visitor attraction, complementing the recently completed world class International Convention Centre facilities in Sydney’s Darling Harbour.