Not basic accommodation, but luxury design.

The Silo Hotel plan was the catalyst for a change in conversation around Launceston.

Developer Errol Stewart was demonstrating a commitment to the region and more importantly in our future.

It was no longer a case of “if” we do something, but “when”.

For the past 12 months The Examiner has highlighted a buzz around Launceston thanks to some key developments and partnerships that have been years in the making.

We now have a bricks and mortar example of that bright future, thanks to the completion of the Silo Hotel.

Mr Stewart, at the official opening on Friday, said it was inspiring to create something from very little.

The project is more than just a successful conversion of silos.

It’s expected the hotel will add $10 million directly into our economy.

The project has already employed more than 180 external contractors.

A further 50 people will be employed at the hotel.

The easy way to produce the hotel on that site would have been a blank canvas.

Instead our past is on show.

Inside the hotel features some of that history. Timber from the wool sheds that once stood beside the silos was used in the design of the hotel.

The site and surrounds have and will transform to become a family and tourist-friendly area – rather than the industrial zone it once was.

The Silo Hotel is another feather in Mr Stewart’s cap following the successful development of Seaport and of course his business ventures through Jackson Motor Company.

Now most heads will turn to the CH Smith development, Josef Chromy’s JAC Gorge Hotel project on the TRC site and the construction of The Verge hotel.

Discussion is on the cards around building heights and a possible Fragrance Hotel development in the CBD.

Importantly, the opening on Friday demonstrated that a development like the Silo Hotel can be achieved in our city thanks to creativity, business-sense, patience and, of course, community support.

In turn, it’s a win for Northern Tasmania.