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Media Release - Oatlands Boutique Hotel Proposal
Tasmanian-based THN Hospitality Pty Ltd (THN) is pleased to have been named the preferred proponent to develop a boutique hotel at Oatlands.
Following a rigorous selection process and detailed collaboration, the Southern Midlands Council and THN Hospitality have signed a Development & Sale Agreement which addresses the conditions under which the project can progress.
THN Managing Director Ben Targett said the preliminary concept design, led by multidisciplinary design firm Fender Katsalidis, for the hotel and precinct development at 10-16 Barrack Street featured 43 accommodation rooms, dining and event facilities, and space for related retail/service experiences.
Mr Targett said although it was "early days" in the life of the project, his team was excited about the prospect of building a design-led hotel in Australia's most significant Georgian village.
"THN Hospitality operates The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel and Hadley's Orient Hotel on behalf of owners who are also excited about the prospect of a regional, architecturally meaningful accommodation development of this significance," he said.
"We have been working closely with our Project Manager Allistair Lindsay and renowned architects Fender Katsalidis. Its team has strong links to Tasmania and through past and current projects, for example Mona, have an acute awareness of the need for sensitive development in places of cultural significance.
"The preliminary concept plan responds to the Historic Heritage Context and Design Guidelines set out by Council and incorporates Georgian architectural principles interpreted to enable a contemporary approach.
With a growing project portfolio in Tasmania, Fender Katsalidis director James Pearce says the practice is excited to be contributing to Tasmania's growing tourism industry by embarking on this mixed-use development alongside THN.
"We're delighted to be working on this distinctive project and are eager to engage deeply with the region to present Oatlands with a thoughtfully designed destination for locals and travellers alike to dine, play and rest, Mr Pearce said.
"Drawing on our experience in masterplan and boutique hotel design, the new hotel and precinct will seek to bring awareness to the site's heritage and broader regional offerings. The project vision is to deliver a contemporary, design that complements Oatlands' history and heritage. Alongside the hotel use and associated activities, the project will enhance the local culture and community."
Mr Targett said that THN's engagement with Southern Midlands Council had proven them to be a very professional organisation and a good partner.
"We've had the opportunity to consult with Council's management, heritage and planning staff which has been highly informative and helpful. They are a very proactive outfit who obviously care about their municipality and what goes on in it.
"We are especially looking forward to the community consultation stage of this project."
"Subject to the relevant approvals and funding, the boutique hotel development will create around 145 jobs during the construction phase and 45 ongoing operational jobs."
Mr Targett said Oatlands was a significant tourism destination with incredible Georgian structures, a growing band of artisans and a fantastic new distillery development.
"Our view is that the Southern Midlands is crying out for an accommodation and events facility of this scale," he said.
"When the new Spirits of Tasmania arrive with additional vehicle capacity, regional accommodation will be a vital part of growing Tasmania's visitor appeal.
"When developed, the hotel will provide significant opportunities for young people in the region to forge a career in tourism and hospitality and assist the Southern Midlands to unlock the benefits of participating in Tasmania's visitor economy.
"It will also create supply and promotional opportunities for many local producers."
SMC Mayor Alex Green said this was a very exciting opportunity for Oatlands and the broader Midlands region.
"This development will capitalise on the current economic activity happening within the Oatlands district with investment in infrastructure and attractions booming," Mayor Green said.
THN has held preliminary discussions with both state and federal representatives in relation to possible funding support which would assist the project to fuel job and experience creation, and welcome conversations with potential investors.
Released by:
Nicolas Turner Tel: 0418 538 865
More information is available at www.oatlands.info
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Posted Thursday, 4 August 2022, 11.50am
