Resorts gearing up

THREE new resorts and significant refurbishments will pour an estimated $50 million of investment into Broome’s hospitality sector over the next few years.

Three developers have planning applications before, or are in negotiations with, the Shire of Broome.

The developments include Paspaley Pearl’s resort Pinktata, The Sanctuary Resort and Frangipanis Resort.

WA Business News understands Hawaiian Management Group, which operates Cable Beach Club Resort, has a nine-hectare lot behind its resort that it hopes to get approval to develop later this year.

It has just spent $6 million refurbishing CBCR and, according to general manager Jon Woodworth, another $6 million to $10 million will be spent this year.

“We’re yet to decide on the final amount. But we will be refurbishing studio rooms that didn’t get completed earlier this year,” he said.

Seashells Hospitality Group, which operates Seashells Resort Broome, will also develop a day spa as part of a $6.5 million development that begins this October.

The new development includes building approximately 13 up-market spa villas, six residential units, and a retail precinct that will include a gourmet deli, day spa and art gallery.

Seashells Hospitality Group managing director Paul King said there was strong demand for more up-market self-contained units.

“They will be spa villas like some of the best in Bali.”

The new development is expected to be completed by May next year.

Bali Hai Resort also will upgrade its day spa facility at an estimated cost of $250,000.