The Grand National Hotel has been operating for more than 100 years. It is a sensitive location in the heart of a residential area. Measures to ensure the Hotel operates in harmony with the surrounding residents include converting the Hotel from a primarily “drinking” hotel to an “eating and drinking” hotel, and removal of poker.

Over the past six years, GSA Planning has been heavily involved in the refurbishment of the Hotel, initially providing development advice and a Statement of Environmental Effects, a Heritage Impact Assessment and Traffic and Parking Report to accompany a development application to Woollahra Council for alterations and additions to the Hotel. The development incorporated internal refurbishment of the ground and upper level and extension of the upper level at the rear.

The development also included the conversion of the upper level from hotel accommodation to a restaurant and cocktail bar. Notwithstanding a favourable recommendation from Council officers, the application was refused, however GSA Planning provided advice and an expert witness in the case. Subsequently, the Land and Environment Court granted approval.