Accord Property is seeking approval to build the four-star hotel at the Summit Precinct on Springs Road, a key initiative designed to boost Mount Barker’s visitor accommodation capacity, attract private investment, and cement the region’s status as a must-visit tourism destination.

The hotel plan marks the first major tourism investment in the 50-hectare, council-owned Summit Precinct, which already includes the Summit Sport and Recreation Park and the soon-to-open Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre (mid-late 2025).

Following a competitive selection process, Accord Property was chosen as the council’s preferred developer due to its proven track record in delivering high-quality projects across Australia that drive regional growth and economic development.

Accord Property Managing Director Lachy Hogarth said the hotel was more than just accommodation – it was a catalyst for further investment in the precinct.

"This hotel marks the beginning of something much larger – it is the centrepiece of a vibrant new precinct that will attract visitors, create jobs, and elevate the region’s tourism appeal,” Mr Hogarth said. “We have secured a high-profile hotel brand and look forward to sharing more details soon.

“As the precinct evolves, a planned $15 million wellness centre will be integrated with the hotel in future stages, further enhancing the visitor experience and establishing the region as a sought-after destination for tourism and leisure.

“Mount Barker is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and this development reflects our confidence in its potential. By working closely with the council and stakeholders, we are ensuring this precinct evolves in a way that maximises its impact and long-term success.”

Mount Barker Mayor David Leach said the hotel proposal was a major step in realising council’s long-term vision for the Summit Precinct. Council has been shaping this vision in response to community needs and private sector interest. In 2023, council invited Expressions of Interest (EOI) from developers and operators to transform the site into a premier tourism destination, featuring accommodation, conference facilities, recreation spaces, and the region’s largest adventure playground.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Mount Barker to create a premier national-level tourism, sport, recreation and events destination that will become a drawcard for visitors to discover our region and all it has to offer,” Mayor Leach said.

“A development of the calibre of this hotel proposal has the potential to generate further private sector interest to secure investment in additional tourism accommodation, events facilities and recreation opportunities at the Summit Precinct. This, in turn, would create considerable local employment and direct and indirect economic growth for our district.

“The proposed hotel, combined with our Summit Sport and Recreation Park and the Summit Aquatic and Leisure Centre, would also position our district to attract more regional, State and national sporting and entertainment events. It will centre Mount Barker as a premier visitor destination, and the ideal place to play, stay and explore the Adelaide Hills.”

Future public space elements of the precinct — such as an adventure playground and an extension of the Laratinga Wetland Trail network — will involve community consultation.

For more information about the Summit Precinct, including updates on the EOI process and project milestones, visit www.mountbarker.sa.gov.au/infrastructure/major-projects/summit-precinct