By Cam Lucadou-Wells
In a further tick for Dandenong’s future, work is starting on what will become the city’s tallest building.
The 20-storey Spectra Dandenong hotel and serviced apartment complex, which will soar above 219-221 Thomas Street.
The “cutting edge” tower will command clear views of Port Phillip from one side and the Dandenongs on the other, says developer Martyn Barnes of Barnes Capital at a launch of the project on 2 May.
It is expected to open in September-October 2020, built at a cost of $66.5 million.
“From a business point of view, there’s a need for more accommodation,” Mr Barnes said.
“The South East is growing and growing. Dandenong is really becoming a business centre as well as being close to Gippsland – and hopefully moving forward with the proposed (South East) airport.
International firm Oakwood will operate the mix of 98 hotel rooms and 56 one- and two-bedroom long-stay apartments. It will be the firm’s second hotel and apartments in Australia.
On the lower floors are residential units, retail, a cafe, a restaurant, medical clinic, offices and meeting rooms.
Oakwood’s Asia Pacific managing director Dean Schreiber said the development was in line with younger families heading to the region and the $290 million revitalisation of central Dandenong.
It will also cater for visitors involved in project work in the surrounding manufacturing and industrial district.
Development Victoria precincts general manager Simon Wilson said the hotel would be a “significant boost” to central Dandenong and its prosperity.
Barnes Capital also has plans to start building an 11-storey Holiday Inn hotel in Cheltenham Road, pending approval.
It is strategically placed, opposite the site of a proposed boutique soccer stadium.
Mr Barnes said the Holiday Inn project was still expected to succeed, despite the FFA’s rejection of the Team 11 A-League license bid based at the proposed stadium.
“That doesn’t stop us from proceeding with that particular development.
“We’re confident something will happen on that land. We still hope there will be another bid.”
