Bundaberg Regional Council’s efforts to attract hotel development in the region have been fuelled by a compelling report produced from hundreds of local survey responses.
Council commissioned a Hotel Demand Feasibility Study in February this year to inform a key advocacy priority to support future growth in the Bundaberg Region.
Over 800 responses to the survey were received from industry stakeholders, visitors, hotel guests and community members.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn said the report was a valuable resource to share with potential investors.
“This comprehensive study shows that the Bundaberg Region is a prime location for hotel development,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“The region’s key industries, such as agriculture, health and tourism, have created strong demand for accommodation that outstrips our current room availability.
“By commissioning this report, Council acknowledges the need to act now to attract hotel investment to support the region’s future economic growth.”
Mayor Blackburn said the report showed that not only was hotel development in the region viable but that it was necessary.
“As a destination, we have a wealth of natural assets, events and activities that our visitors come to experience.
“The undersupply of short-stay accommodation limits the capacity for visitors to stay longer in the region and that means we are missing out on a significant economic benefit to our community.
“The recommendation is for an upscale, branded hotel to support the Bundaberg Region’s established strong foundation as a destination that has year-round appeal.
“Council is committed to engaging with prospective investors and unlocking the region’s potential for growth in this area.”
The Hotel Demand Feasibility Study is available for download on Council’s website.
The report was produced by Tourism and Hospitality Services Australia (THSA) in collaboration with Council and Bundaberg Tourism.
What stopped the development of the Burnett Heads ‘Port Marina’ development?
Burnett Heads is a prime Tourism precinct waiting to be opened to the world.
Come on Bundaberg Council, let’s get this beautiful area opened for everyone to enjoy.
Weren’t we suspected to be getting a new hotel next to the airport? Speaking of which, Bundaberg desperately needs Bundaberg Sydney/Melbourne direct flights. Our population and attractions now warrant such flights.
From what I understand of the situation the corporate focused motel Boulevard Lodge needed about 100 more rooms just for it’s self in 2015. It is the last 4 star accommodation built in town. 10 years later we have built nothing.
@Frank to get more direct flights we need a airport runway upgrade it’s possible & the airport masterplan is due for updating. A upgraded airport runway would allow for a greater variety of air planes to make use of our airport. There is room for a upgrade to type 4C using the existing area. If some of the land outside of the area was used it could be further upgradedto type 4D bringing similar capacity to Townsville.
Additional modifications are also needed to make this happen.