A futuristic development which will see Freycinet Lodge fitted out with nine new waterfront pods and six new pavilions is under way.
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The pods, which have been designed to nestle guests between vegetation and the water, will be constructed offsite and are expected to open for use early next year.
Six cabins will be dismantled and removed by hand to make room for the development to take place inside the lodge’s existing footprint.
The lodge’s main building will also be fitted out with a new lift and access suite as part of the upgrade.
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RACT chief executive Harvey Lennon said the development had been designed to provide customers with luxury and a glimpse of Tasmania’s natural beauty.
“We completed detailed research to determine what guests wanted when they visited the lodge and discovered they were seeking a premium accommodation experience and an opportunity to connect with nature,” he said.
RACT initially planned to extend its reach into Freycinet National Park by 5.6 hectares with new 12 new motorhome sites and cabins, but abandoned the plans in the wake of community concerns.
Mr Lennon said developers had gone to lengths to ensure the revamped project would have minimal impact on its surroundings.
“This is a very careful operation that has taken significant planning.
“We are continuing to work with the local community and stakeholders to ensure that they are informed of the work’s progress.
“The RACT is on the record saying that we want to continue to expand our involvement in the tourism sector in a sensible way.”
Tasmanian tourism developer Brett Torossi, who played an important role in the project’s design, said the development was “carefully sensitive” to the area’s Aboriginal history and endemic plants and wildlife.
“There will be native vegetation that sits between the pods and the water,” Ms Torossi said.
“The Hazards Mountains are beautiful round formations, orange and rich next to the stunning turquoise water.
“All of those elements are reflected in our curved structures and natural finishes throughout that will enhance the overall visitor experience.”
The state and federal governments contributed $1 million towards the project through the Tasmania Jobs and Investment Fund.