First look at upstairs bar and balcony as Albany’s Premier Hotel nears end of $4 million redevelopment

The new-look Premier Hotel is entering the final stages of its redevelopment, with the $4 million project expected to be finished by October. An upstairs bar and wide, wraparound balcony overlooking York and Grey streets are the headline changes to the historic venue that was gutted by an arson attack in 2016. The heritage-listed hotel has undergone an extensive refurbishment since that fire caused about $1.5m damage to the 129-year-old venue. The second storey of the hotel was used mainly for accommodation before the fire, but it has been repurposed as a second bar. The Advertiser was given an exclusive first tour of the new wooden deck this week, where patrons will be able to enjoy an afternoon drink and stunning views to Princess Royal Harbour. At the rear of the second level, there is a self-contained manager’s residence with multiple bedrooms, a kitchen and ensuite bathroom. A lift between levels is another new addition, but the old staircase remains intact. The project has included upgrades to the main kitchen, toilets and restaurant, plus a lengthening of the main bar. The venue has been transformed into a tavern, with capacity for more than 500 patrons in a mix of open and private lounge areas across the two levels. Realforce project manager and hotel builder John Boccamazzo said they had tried to preserve the character of the building. “The project is getting close to finish,” he said. “General construction should be completed by September, October. “It has been a thorough process and when you do something you want to make it last. “The devil will be in the detail and we’ve tried to keep as much of its character as we could.” Mr Boccamazzo said bringing the building up to compliance standards was a key part of the project, involving the replacement of old water and power systems, lighting, windows and other internal elements. Established in 1891, four years after the iconic Albany Town Hall, “The Prem” has been a big part of Albany’s history. Barry Panizza, one of nine co-owners of the building, said the next major step would be finding a venue manager. “It’s obviously all very exciting that we are getting to the end of the project,” Mr Panizza said. “The process of looking for an operator will happen as we get a bit closer to completion. “We will be looking for a leaseholder and someone to run the business.”