You learn something new everyday, and today I learned that I was just starting high school the last time Sydney received a major new-build 5-star hotel.
That’s a surprisingly long-time considering the city’s popularity as a tourist destination.
Making a much-needed change, the State Government alongside hotel operator AccorHotels officially started construction on a 600-room new-build property today.
AccorHotels Chairman and CEO Asia Pacific Michael Issenberg and Chief Operating Officer Pacific Simon McGrath on site at the Sofitel Darling Harbour concrete pouring with NSW Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres and Dr Jerry Schwartz and Jonathan Emery from Lendlease.
The first barrel of concrete for the International Convention Centre (ICC) Sydney Hotel, Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour was poured onsite with major tourism heads in attendance.
The property is part of the State Government’s $3.4 billion transformation of the Darling Harbour precinct.
Once completed in 2017, it will stand 35 levels high and add over 600 beds to the fast-growing tourist destination.
In addition to meeting demand for more hotel rooms, the Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour will boast panoramic harbour and city views, a rooftop Club Lounge, outdoor pool deck, extensive food and beverage and meeting facilities including a large ballroom.
AccorHotels Chief Operating Officer Pacific, Simon McGrath, said the property is the ‘most significant hotel project’ in Australia at the moment and will bring ‘cutting-edge design’ to the city.
Additionally, Owner and Investor, Dr Jerry Schwartz, said it will play a major role in attracting more conferences and events.
“There has been a growing chorus calling for new, high-quality 5-star accommodation to help Sydney compete with destinations in Asia and elsewhere, and I believe that when the Sofitel opens it will become a landmark, setting new standards for luxury hotels in the city.”
Dr Jerry Schwartz, Owner/Investor
