Melbourne quarantine facility reopens as flash hotel
An inner-city Melbourne hotel linked to one of Victoria’s biggest quarantine outbreaks has reopened under an international brand – six years after it was announced.
Owner Ross Pelligra with executives from operator IHG Hotels & Resorts, the tourism minister and Lord Mayor today cut the ribbon marking the official opening of the Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton, at 701 Swanston Street.
The 107-room guesthouse began trading in April.
The partnership was announced shortly after Pelligra Group bought the hotel from Adelaide hotelier David Horbelt in 2020.
“Melbourne continues to be one of Australia’s most important business and leisure destinations and the opening of Crowne Plaza Melbourne Carlton reflects our confidence in the strength and future of this market,” IHG Australasia & Pacific managing director, Matt Tripolone, said.
“What makes this hotel so special is its genuine connection to the neighbourhood…Carlton has such a strong identity, from its food culture and universities to its proximity to the CBD, hospitals and major events,” he added.
Six years coming
The property was thrust into the spotlight following a COVID-19 outbreak in May, 2020, while used as a hotel quarantine facility and controversially managed by private security.
Pelligra bought it following a public sales campaign that July (continues below).
IHG committed for a Crowne Plaza four months later.
An extensive refurbishment of the five level building was undertaken last year.
“Crowne Plaza was the right fit because it’s a lifestyle brand, and that’s exactly what we wanted to bring to Carlton,” Mr Pelligra said.
“Our vision was to create more than just a hotel; we wanted to create a place where people come together to eat, drink and spend time,” he added.
“The hotel contains 270 square metres of meeting and event space across four function rooms, while Italian restaurant Fico Carlton occupies the ground floor,” according to the executive.
A rooftop bar is planned.
This pocket of Carlton, opposite Lincoln Square, is less than two kilometres from the CBD.
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