Port Douglas Backpackers on Warner Street in the CBD is aiming to expand its capacity by more than 70 beds.

Currently able to fit in 148 travellers at one time, owners RRL One want to increase that capacity to 222 by adding more beds to the current 28 rooms to make 26 eight-bed dorms and two seven-bed dorms.

The plan includes converting the current shop space into a shared recreation and kitchen area, adding five more bathrooms and toilets, expanding the laundry and adding more decking.

“The Port Douglas region has experienced significant growth of its tourism and hospitality industries over the last 25 years and is facing a shortfall in accommodation for transient employees and visitors alike,” a report submitted to Douglas Shire Council about the expansion project states.

“The number of beds per dorm is in accordance with the relevant fire code.”

The plan for the popular backpacker accommodation, at 37-39 Warner Street, Port Douglas, also includes a new gym and more bike and scooter parking. 

But six of the current carparks are proposed to be removed, leaving 22 carparks on site. Warner Street currently has a long-running issue of people camping in their cars overnight and discarding their rubbish on the footpaths in the area.

“No changes to operational hours (and) traffic are proposed,” the report states.