Development of the high-end Darwin Westin Hotel has reached a major milestone with the start of roadworks at the Waterfront site this week.
This $200 million private-sector investment will provide a significant boost to the tourism industry and help to attract high-end investors wanting to do business in the Territory.
Darwin-based contractor McMahon Services Australia is delivering the first stage of construction which will employ a workforce of about 35 people. McMahon will work in conjunction with its sister company Intract, an Indigenous-owned civil construction company that boasts a 92% Indigenous employment rate.
As part of the first stage, Anchorage Court will be widened to ensure the cruise ship terminal continues to operate safely throughout the construction period. Other elements include a sea wall and foreshore access footpath, diversions and relocation of services, a new headwall and associated drainage.
While the development of the hotel is a private enterprise project, the NT Government has committed $17m towards public infrastructure including a sky walk to link the Waterfront to the CBD.
Premier US hotel chain Marriott International owns Westin Hotels, which has more than 6400 hotels across the world and a strong reputation for attracting high-end tourism.
Landbridge Group is expecting to call for Expressions of Interest to construct the hotel later this year.
The hotel is expected to open in 2022.
Quotes attributed to the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics, Eva Lawler
“The construction of a hotel of this calibre is a game changer for the Territory and will provide significant opportunities for Territorians.
“Local businesses will have the chance to tender for work, while 500 jobs will be created during construction and an additional 150 jobs once the hotel opens.
“The Darwin Westin hotel will also spearhead a new tourism stream that will include upmarket holiday makers and business travellers while opening up new private investment opportunities.”
Quotes attributed to Project Director, Andy Payne, Landbridge Group
“This is a significant milestone in the development. We are very pleased to have awarded the Stage One works to a locally based business and we maintain our commitment to ensure maximum opportunities for qualified local contractors and suppliers.
“An industry briefing on the hotel construction contract will be held following the call for Expressions of Interest to provide more information to all interested contractors about the capability requirements.”
Media contact: Ellie Clancy 0436 646 689