Plans to relocate a landmark 139-year-old pub in Parramatta from its iconic location have been revealed.
The Albion Hotel’s final days at the corner of Harris and George Street may be fast approaching but that doesn’t mean it’s the last locals will see of the popular pub.
A Development Application (DA) has just been lodged with Parramatta Council which, if approved, could see the venue putting down roots closer to the CBD, at 20 Smith Street, Parramatta.
The plans come after it was confirmed its current location is set to be demolished “down to the slab” and replaced with two towers that will house 405 apartments, a wine bar and cinema.
“Sadly, but with great expectations, the Albion enters a new future which will consolidate and build on the history and community that it has created and move forward at its proposed new location,” the application said.
Originally constructed in 1882, the Albion Hotel was later demolished in 1924 and rebuilt, with the Soloman family acquiring the pub in 1986.
The plans promise to build on the “legacy” of the Albion Hotel, creating an international quality multi-offer hospitality venue while still being relevant to the local community.
Approximately 500m west from its current location, the proposed new site is an existing commercial building with a ground floor of three retail tenancies, two levels of podium car parking and an eight level office tower, which is partly tenanted.
The application revealed the Albion Hotel intends to take over the ground floor as well as level one and two of the office floors. The ground floor will be used as a licensed pub and feature a beer garden, sports bar and gaming room.
The first floor is planned to be transformed into a bar and nightclub, with a dining room and terrace areas. The second floor will serve as a bar and smoking terrace.
Part of the Solotel Group, the application said the design of the new Albion Hotel aims to “reflect” Solotels brand to provide a unique experience and building form.
“The proposed Albion relocation offers, to the Parramatta CBD, an all-day and late night and multi offer venue,” it said.
“This offering will host a public bar, all-day dining lounge and bar, and a night club for local and international artists.”
Through the relocation of Albion Hotel, the proposal plans to add to the night time economic growth within the CBD and promote Parramatta as a “thriving night time destination.”
“For the City of Parramatta, the presence of a contemporary urban venue of this type offers a dedicated destination for locals and visitors alike,” the application said.
“This venue will cater to the growing diverse cultural population.”
If approved, it would operate 24/7 Monday to Saturday and 5am to 12am on Sunday.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.