Visitors to Gunnedah and locals alike could soon be enjoying a luxury accommodation and dining experience with plans today unveiled for a $17.4 million 4.5-star gateway hotel development.
The proposed three-storey development includes 70rooms and suites with some pet-friendly, a private lounge, a restaurant and bar, gym and a function space big enough to cater for 120 people.
Central Hospitality Group (CHG), who have made steady traction in Tamworth over the recent years, will run the flagship property which their Managing Director Jye Segboer says has been carefully designed to reflect Gunnedah’s natural beauty, history and connection to country.
“We are excited at the prospect of bringing our extensive hospitality experience to Gunnedah with a modern and contemporary hotel design that we believe reflects everything that is special about the Shire.
“This development has been years in the making to ensure that no stone has been left unturned to create a landmark destination that the people of Gunnedah will be proud to call their own.
Awarding-winning architects EJE were selected for their thoughtful, collaborative approach to design which is reflected in this development from the concept design to interior finishes.
EJE Director Glen Spicer said it was important for EJE to celebrate local stories with the design of the CH Boutique Hotel Gunnedah.
“One of the most important design principles for EJE was to honour the site and the landscape of Gunnedah.
“We worked closely with local Kamilaroi Elders who were generous with their knowledge sharing the significance of the site and the region to inform the design. As a result, the hotel and its grounds provide a canvas for telling the stories of the Kamilaroi People.
“EJE also took inspiration from the Nea Train Station and its adjacent silos as you come into town using the rural industrial landscape to shape the form of the building and the design principles for the interior,” explained Mr Spicer.
A comprehensive development application for the hotel was lodged last week by Gunnedah Gateway Holdings and will be subject a rigorous assessment process including a mandatory period of public exhibition.
If approved, the development is not only expected to enhance the Shire’s tourism experience and give locals a reason to “stay local”, but it will also provide new local employment opportunities and further strength the Gunnedah economy with the flow-on effect a destination like this creates.
Jack Chaffey, Development Manager for Gunnedah Gateway Holdings echoed the sentiments of Mr Segboer and Mr Spicer regarding benefits of the proposed development, predicting that interest in the hotel would be strong.
“We’re tremendously excited to bring this project to life and address the growing demand for high-quality accommodation and dining for visitors to Gunnedah and locals alike.
“The need for more shovel-ready projects in regional areas to grow accommodation filling that void and will enhance the tourism and hospitality experience already on offer in our Shire.
“From the outset of our planning, we have been aware of the importance of this highly visible site and our duty to create a statement entrance to Gunnedah.
“We’ve aimed to follow the town’s form and history whilst creating a space that reflects the way we live today,” said Mr Chaffey.
If approved, construction for the proposed CH Boutique Hotel Gunnedah is expected to start in the first quarter of 2024 and is expected to open in 2026.
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