A local property developer has unveiled plans to build an AU$150 million resort surrounding Queensland’s The Ville casino in Townsville, which he describes as “the best site of any casino in Australia.”
The concept plans were designed by specialist resort planners Gary Hunt Architects and Pure Projects – who provided project and construction management services for Marina Bay Sands in Singapore – and include a spectacular lagoon, new hotel with luxury villas, a marina and large areas of public space.
Chris Morris, who purchased the land surrounding The Ville for AU$10 million last year, told The Townsville Bulletin that he wants to create a “postcard” project that would put the northern Queensland city on the global tourist map.
“If we do something like that it would be the postcard for Townsville. It’s got to make a statement,” he said.
“If you look at what we will provide with the Quarterdeck (a restaurant opening at The Ville this month) … people will realise the value of that view across to Magnetic Island.
“It’s still the best site of any casino in Australia.”
The Ville, formerly known as Jupiters Townsville, is currently undergoing an AU$40 million redevelopment – due for completion in May 2018 – that will include three new restaurants, a poolside function space for up to 700 people, a rooftop infinity pool with swim-up bar and an elevated pool deck. The hotel’s rooms are also being renovated.
However, Morris said that another hotel was desperately needed due to increased demand and wanted construction of his surrounding development to be underway within a year. The development is subject to council approval.
“I’d be disappointed if we weren’t doing something constructive in a year,” he said. “There’s a bit of work to do before we turn any soil.”
If approved, the lagoon would be constructed by Crystal Lagoons – the US company currently building a massive 98-acre lagoon in Dubai.
