Melbourne's Docklands set for $340m hotel tower development

The Melbourne developer that built the most recent 5-star Marriott in Docklands has received approval of its planning permit for a $340 million dual hotel project in the same district, in conjunction with Sydney-based TFE Hotels.

The permit for the mixed-use lifestyle development at 28-38 Pearl River Road allows Capital Alliance to proceed with plans for a conference centre with a capacity to hold 1,000 people - one of the largest in Australia - and dual hotels featuring Australia’s largest rooftop infinity pool.

It is a project that will feature the premium 105-room A by Adina and a 200-room bespoke Collection by TFE Hotels brands.

Other hotels in this TFE collection include Melbourne's Savoy Hotel on Little Collins, Hotel Kurrajong in Canberra, The Calile Hotel in Brisbane and the The Hotel Britomart in Auckland, while other group brands include Adina Hotels, Vibe Hotels, Quincy Hotels, Travelodge Hotels, and Rendezvous Hotels.

"In the face of the current economic uncertainty, we are thrilled to move into the next phase of this ambitious project," says Capital Alliance chief executive Mohan Du, who founded the company in 2012.

"Pearl River is our last blank canvas for Docklands and as such represents a significant milestone, so we wanted to create something truly remarkable and, in collaboration with TFE Hotels, a precinct that fosters a work, rest, play lifestyle.

"Importantly, this project also prioritises sustainability, world-class lifestyle amenities and provides a premium setting for large scale Melbourne events."

The developers are keen to have as many superlatives as possible in the project - not only  the largest rooftop infinity pool in Australia, but the country's longest escalator too with visual projection technology.

"Just like the Pompidou Centre in Paris this enormous escalator runs up the side of the building and leads to a fabulous bar and function centre," says Melbourne's Deputy Lord Mayor, Nicholas Reece.

"And just like at the Pompidou I am sure this new escalator will be renowned as one of the best rides in Melbourne."

Melbourne Lord Mayor Sally Capp says Docklands' popularity continues to grow, with night-time pedestrian activity at New Quay exceeding pre-pandemic levels throughout May.

"It’s no surprise Docklands attracts great modern commercial and residential developments, with waterfront views, easy access to the city, and an extensive list of shopping and dining options," she says.

In addition to designing and building the 5-star Marriott in Docklands, Capital Alliance has also delivered the refurbishment of Peppers Docklands, and was responsible for the AC by Marriott at Southbank in Melbourne in 2022.

As well as its hospitality portfolio, Capital Alliance was appointed as the developer and master planner to lead the charge on the Revitalisation of the City of Dandenong, a $2 billion and 10-year project.