A former courthouse in the centre of Ipswich will be transformed into a hotel if a development application lodged with Ipswich City Council is approved.
Newground Ipswich Hotel Pty Ltd has applied to redevelop the building at 59 East Street into short stay accommodation, including a restaurant and function areas.
The three-storey building has been vacant for several years.
“The site comprises three frontages to East Street, Limestone Street and Foote Lane and immediately adjoins Market Square Park,” the application notes.
“The proposal involves the internal and external refurbishment of the existing building, while reinstating its presence as a key corner site within the Ipswich CBD and re-engaging with Market Square Park.
“Existing aspects of the building that will stay as currently installed include vehicle access points and the L building shape.
“The ground floor features the most amount of a change as part of this proposal from the original fabric.
“The entry to the building is (proposed to be) realigned to create a main entrance from Foote Lane.
“This includes the introduction of a set down area at the frontage of the site, an awning extending to the property boundary, new main steps and ramp into the building.
“Further to the reoriented entry, the ground floor restaurant and bar area are oriented to address Market Square, and are complemented through the introduction of a deck and timber arbour that extends to the property boundary.”
The hotel would have 147 rooms across three floors.
The application will be assessed by Ipswich City Council.
