THE first sod has been turned on the Prendiville Group’s $24 million redevelopment of Hotel Rottnest.
Eighteen existing hotel rooms will be demolished and an extra 80 rooms added as part of the development that will include two pools, a reception pavilion, outdoor dining, function facilities and grassed and utility areas.
Hotel Rottnest’s bar and restaurant will continue to trade during construction with the new development, which will nearly double the size of the hotel, set to be completed for the summer of 2020.
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READ NOWTourism Minister Paul Papalia said the premium hotel rooms would add to the accommodation offering on the island.
“Whether it is premium hotel rooms, a classic Rottnest unit overlooking the bay or a glamping experience, we are definitely bringing more variety to the island and ensuring Rottnest’s appeal will continue into the future,” Mr Papalia said.
“The reinvigoration of Rottnest is well underway, with the opening of Discovery, the start of the Hotel redevelopment and concept planning to improve the visitor experience on the Main Jetty.”
With 135,000 visitors heading to the island in April and May, the total visitation numbers for 2018-19 increases to a record-breaking 758,239 visitors with June figures still to come.
Mr Papalia said Rottnest Island was on target to reach its 2034 target of 800,000 annual visitors – more than a decade ahead of time.
“Rottnest Island continues to experience huge visitation numbers, which is why our investment towards key infrastructure is vital in ensuring the island’s sustainability into the future,” he said.
The State Government has committed $16.2 million into key infrastructure, including infrastructure works for the Fuel Jetty and the Thomson Bay South Development.
