GURNER secures planning approval for $250 million Port Douglas resort
Multi-billion-dollar developer and lifestyle brand GURNER™ has achieved a planning permit for its second Port Douglas project, a 26,000 sqm site at 91 – 113 Davidson Road, that is set to become a landmark destination resort and private residences.
Urban exclusively revealed Gurner's plans for the $250 million resort, dubbed The Davidson by Gurner, back in June 2023 when they filed plans for a 112-room hotel across a three-level building, including the six “underwater” aquarium rooms with a glassed wall creating an underwater visage into the lagoon.
The Gurner™ team worked closely with Douglas Shire over the past 18 months to re-imagine a new level of luxury accommodation for the area, with the developer engaging Port Douglas-based Hunt Design as lead architect to elevate the offering beyond the traditional to create something completely unique to the market.
The result is a landmark resort that’s been inspired by Europe’s best beach clubs, including Saint Tropez and the Greek islands, that centres around its distinctive blue lagoon and features bars and restaurants, a day spa and gymnasium facilities.
The design principles prioritise the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting the opening of the buildings and activation of sheltered external areas for comfortable outdoor living.
The resort will also feature a residential component, consisting of 44 ultra-luxury homes and townhomes, with seven different villa types and the ability to provide both short-term and permanent accommodation. Purchasers will have the option of incorporating advanced wellness options that have been curated to promote physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Maintaining a key focus on wellness, which is becoming a hallmark of the Gurner Group brand, the resort is designed as a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul, and is situated amidst breathtaking natural surroundings, offering guests a tranquil escape from the stresses of modern life.
Further wellness inclusions include classes, spa and relaxation amenities, wellness concierge services, fitness facilities, air and water purification and sustainable green spaces that are eco-friendly and energy efficient, which enhances residents’ connection to nature.
The ultra-luxe private residents are set to be priced between $2.5m - $10m, surrounded by over 5,500 sqm of private landscaped areas and bookable facilities. Over 30 per cent of the 26,000 sqm site will be covered in tropical landscaping, with 3,000 sqm of shared outdoor amenities.
With a planning permit now in place, the Gurner™ team is expecting to break ground in 2025.
“We see this as a huge opportunity for the future of Port Douglas – the incredible area is crying out for some amazing accommodation that highlights its natural beauty, which is what inspired the design of our luxury wellness experience that locals will be proud of," Tim Gurner said.
“Port Douglas is one of my favourite parts of the world – I love holidaying there with my family, and I’m looking forward to seeing this family-friendly resort experience come to life and bring more visitors to the area."