Introducing the Ritz-Carlton brand
The Star Entertainment Group, one of Australian’s leading casino operators, wants to build a 61-story Ritz-Carlton hotel at its Star Sydney complex, the company has announced.
Star recently filed a development application with the New South Wales Department of Planning for the hotel, which will join a residence tower, new resort amenities, additional restaurants and bars and a neighborhood center.
Star’s partner in the venture is Hong Kong-based Chow Tai Fook and Far East Consortium, which will contribute some $500 million to the project. The hotel, to be designed by the architectural firm FJMT, will include a sky lobby with harbor views and a rooftop terrace.
“This country is experiencing significant growth in inbound tourism, an upward trend which shows all the hallmarks of continuing well into the future,” noted Star Entertainment CEO, Matt Bekier. “Forecasts suggest Australia’s current visitation of around 8.3 million international visitors per annum will rise to 15 million a year inside a decade. To cater for that demand, we need the necessary tourism infrastructure.”
Bekier said that Sydney currently “lacks sufficient high-end hotels to meet this wave of international tourist demand, led by the rapidly expanding wealthy Chinese middle-class demographic. By moving to close the shortfall in supply, we can ensure we don’t miss an opportunity that offers considerable economic benefit to this city and this state. Bringing a world-renowned brand like The Ritz-Carlton to the Star Sydney will further embed our reputation as a tourism and entertainment destination of global appeal.”
