Bulli’s Denmark Hotel fetches a million dollars

IS this third time lucky for Bulli’s Denmark Hotel?

The much-loved heritage property has been sold for a million dollars to a “husband and wife team with local interests”, who plan to work with Wollongong City Council to complete the much-anticipated restoration of the former coaching inn.

Selling agent, Peter Seeto, from Cabmon Property, said the buyers of the former hotel, established in 1876, would like to remain anonymous at this stage.

The Bulli & Clifton Times understands the owners – the third in 25 years, who plan to breathe new life into the property – have had previous experience restoring heritage properties.

Frank Gervaise purchased 202 Princes Highway from the Bourke estate in 1998 with intentions of transforming the property into a boutique hotel. However, due to difficulties gaining redevelopment approvals, Mr Gervaise sold the old Denmark Hotel in 2011 to Sean Hannon, who planned to convert the building for residential purposes.

Mr Hannon bought the property for $427,000 with a vision to transform the building into three exclusive apartments. After a decade, spending more than $100,000, and battling red tape from various government authorities – particularly with access – Mr Hannon reportedly “run out of steam”, and reluctantly placed the property on the market.

This month’s sale of the former Denmark Hotel comes with Wollongong City Council consent for a three unit multi-dwelling residential development. The Bulli & Clifton Times understands this would not be activated until a right of way through Council’s ‘Miner’s Cottage’, located next door, is created. Alternatively a range of uses may be approved for the site subject to development consent.

Mr Seeto said the sale campaign attracted significant interest, with 31 inspections and around 70 genuine inquires.

“It’s a unique property and we were tasked to find the right buyer,” Mr Seeto said.

“Strict instructions from the vendor, Sean Hannon, were given to gain interest from someone wanting to push forward and get the property to its former glory. 

“The purchaser, a husband-and-wife team with local interests and an absolute passion for heritage restoration are keen to work closely with Wollongong City Council to restore the property and build on the rich history and the lifestyle Bulli has to offer.

“The vendor is excited and pleased with the result and we thank the local community of the interest and support during our sales campaign and look forward to seeing a revitalised Old Denmark Hotel in the next few years to come.”

For a history of the Denmark Hotel visit the Looking Back website HERE.

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