Papers have been lodged with the Australian Capital Territory Government for a proposal to build a new Hilton hotel in Canberra alongside a new Centre of Trade and Technology.
The proposed Hilton Canberra and Trade Centre marks the global brand’s entry to the Canberra market via its full-service namesake and flagship marque. The Consortium involved in the proposal with Hilton includes Ledrae Hotels Pty Ltd – the same organisation attached to develop the forthcoming Hilton Parramatta – and design firm M20 Pty Ltd.
Among the $200 million, 253-room development will be 18 suites, signature restaurant and bar, fitness centre, swimming pool and spa facilities, space for meetings and events and a variety of luxury boutique retailers.
Adjacent to the hotel will be an International Hotel School to facilitate training programs along with a Child Care and Learning Centre both capable of hosting diplomatic services, technology and trade businesses.
Energy efficiency will be central to the proposed development, with an international design competition set to begin to determine the exact look of the building’s exterior. Key elements of the winning design will include innovations such as new water management and recycling systems, rainwater capture, smart glass panels as well as solar power, heat and ventilations technology working to create optimum levels of comfort for guests while minimising environmental impact.
Hilton Australasia Vice President Development, Rob Scullin, said Canberra was a critically important market and the company would relish the opportunity to offer its level of hospitality to government, business and leisure guests visiting the capital.
The proposal has been formally accepted and is now being considered by planning and development officials.