A PROPOSAL for a 12-storey hotel in Airlie Beach has sparked debate online with some residents saying it could boost the region and others tagging it an “eyesore”.

More details about a luxury hotel development at Port of Airlie were revealed last month with developers saying it could provide hundreds of jobs and inject millions into the economy.

Plans show a four to five-star hotel with 180 suites, a spa and fitness centre, yoga deck, pool terrace and amenities that would stand more than 45m tall.

The original development application for the resort complex in Airlie Beach was lodged in December 2019.

However, the height of the proposed development exceeds the Whitsunday Regional Council’s planning scheme.

The development divided residents who commented on the Whitsunday Times Facebook page.

Shannon Murphy and Trenella Mcinerney-Passmore said the new hotel would be an “eyesore” while Emma Burkett said: “Don’t ruin Airlie!”

Paula Merlo believed the Airlie Beach community would “never” want to see a development like this.

“The Port of Airlie retail has not done well and not surprising as most tourists don’t come to an area to shop because they have shops at home and probably come from countries where they can get things cheaper,” she said.

“The existing hotels have all been struggling.

“Let’s hope council listens to the community.”

Suzie Buttigieg was also against the proposed development and had concerns about the height of the building.

“Keep to council’s height limit otherwise we will end up looking like Surfers Paradise here in Airlie Beach,” she said.

However, some were supportive of the proposal, like Kylie Moss who said there “would be a market for it”.

“Especially (for) wedding conferences, special events, functions (and) meetings,” she said.

“Top level service, food, nice live music, dancing and to cater for 30 years plus maybe.”

Louise Kranzl O’loughlin was also not opposed to the idea.

“From an outsider’s perspective, not saying this is a great idea (but it) would depend on location I guess,” she said.

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“But trying to get a hotel in town has proven difficult.

“We probably try and grab a room for a couple of nights every three weeks, and I can tell you it’s luck of the draw on availability.

“Occupancy rate must be high.”

Whitsunday Regional Council development services director Neil McGaffin said the council was still seeking further clarification on several aspects of the development, including parking and the proposed building’s height.

Once the details are finalised, the application will go to the public for comment, which Mr McGaffin said could still be two weeks away.