Warner Street accommodation set to be backpacked to the rafters
Shire tourism
The Warner Street backpackers in Port Douglas is set to expand by more than 70 beds to 222 following the approval of the project late last month.
A new section will be built on the left-hand side of the main Port Douglas Backpackers building by developer RRL One, which will require the removal of one tree, according to the latest updated plans.
“Tree removal should only be considered where the final design and root investigation demonstrates that a tree cannot be retained,” Douglas Shire Council planning staff state.
Other provisions called for by the DSC include more bins - with the number to be decided by the Council’s Waste Management Department - 23 car parks, including five out the front, and 38 bike-parking spaces.
The approved plans also now include 65sq m more of decking and a new toilet and shower block at the back left side of the development.
“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,” the original plans state.
The project was first submitted to council planners in November last year, and has also gone through the State Government’s State Assessment and Referral Agency.
The popular backpacker accommodation is at 37-39 Warner Street, Port Douglas.
