Star Entertainment Group, one of Australia’s largest casino operators, has announced that its planned renovation of the popular Sydney casino, The Star, will also include the construction of a brand new $375 million six star hotel, alongside an updated range of restaurants. Lucky Nugget Casino writers take a look at the story in more detail.
The firm, also behind Jupiters Hotel and Casino Gold Coast and Brisbane’s Treasury Casino and Hotel, revealed that the development of Prymont — an inner-city Suburb of Sydney — is scheduled to open mid to late 2020, providing tourists and surrounding residents 220 luxury rooms and 150 residences, with the latter managed by the Ritz Carlson Company.
According to Matt Bekier, Managing Director of Star Entertainment: ‘Our development concept will take The Star Sydney’s room inventory to more than 1,000, bring The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company brand back to Sydney and add a further 20 food and beverage venues.’
Star Sydney project to continue as planned
Quashing fears the renovation would slow the progression of the $375 million Star Sydney project, Bekier assured the two projects would occur simultaneously. The Star Sydney is set to see a complete renovation of the Astral Tower block, alongside all residences. Additions include a new Harvest Buffet restaurant and further upgrades to reception areas, accompanied with improvements to its VIP area.
In further news, Star Entertainment have made the decision to consult the local community in regards to the design of the hotel. This decision, while not confirmed, could be a result of the backlash James Packer’s Crown Resorts Limited felt after plans for their Crown Sydney development were met with criticism.
Bringing together a panel of experts, including Greg Hawkins, Managing Director for The Star Sydney, government architect Peter Poulet and Lisa-Maree Carrigan, Group GSA architect, the experts will consider plans that incorporate the local design of the area.
‘Our approach, featuring the design competition and community engagement, will enable us to develop an integrated resort on our site that truly reflects the unique character of our city and provides an attraction that all of Sydney can enjoy and be proud of’, said Bekier, in response to questions about the panel.
Executive Director for the Sydney Business Chamber, Patricia Forsythe, looked at the hotel proposal as a means of developing the western end of Sydney Harbour, while also providing the growing number of Chinese VIP gamers luxury accommodation.
