(TAN): IHG has announced signing of management agreement with Ross Pelligra’s Carlton Property Group to bring the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton to Melbourne’s booming Carlton precinct in the first half of 2021. The 5-storey property, which was previously being operated as Rydges on Swanston, has been purchased by Carlton Property Group and will convert to the upscale Crowne Plaza brand, following a full refurbishment.
Ross Pelligra, Owner of Carlton Property Group, commented: “Melbourne is one of the world’s great cities and I’m absolutely confident in the long-term, which is why I’m backing it by bringing a world-class premium hotel brand to Carlton. Given our expertise in construction and ongoing commitment to build or reposition assets in partnership with IHG, we plan to lift the game and give this property a full refurb and a fresh start as Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton in early 2021.”
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All public spaces, meeting facilities and 107 guest rooms will enjoy a full refurbishment, along with the building’s exterior which will also get an update. Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton will feature an all-day restaurant and bar, gym and undercover parking, and extensive meeting and event spaces that also include a 300-pax theatre style space.
Abhijay Sandilya, IHG’s Vice President, Development – Australasia, Japan & Pacific, said, “We are delighted to sign our latest management agreement with Ross Pelligra, adding to his portfolio of IHG hotels that already includes Holiday Inn Melbourne Airport, and the upcoming Holiday Inn properties in Melbourne’s Werribee and Richmond. This is a true story of partnership, and we are so excited to grow together to bring amazing hotels to the Australian market.”
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The contemporary hotel with its Swanston Street frontage enjoys a coveted location overlooking Lincoln Square, just minutes’ walk from Melbourne’s University Precinct, the Biomedical Precinct and Queen Victoria Market, the largest market in Melbourne and the most visited attraction in Victoria with more than 10 million visitors each year.
Carlton has long been known as the birthplace of Melbourne’s café culture, thanks to its Little Italy precinct on Lygon Street. It’s also known for its garden squares and Victorian architecture and, more recently, it is enjoying a renaissance due to its proximity to Melbourne and for having the highest concentration of university students in Australia.
