Melbourne-based property developer Gurner has submitted plans for a $60 million boutique wellness, hotel and residential retreat in Port Douglas.

The complex, to be situated on 2833sq m of beachfront land at Murphy St, would include 16 ultra-luxury private residences and a further 18 boutique hotel rooms.

Gurner has engaged Powell and Glenn architects to lead the design in collaboration with Wolveridge Architects, given their exceptional local knowledge and experience.

The developer has also appointed landscape architect Myles Baldwin to create a tropical oasis filled with greenery, pools and private landscaped retreats and palms.

Gurner founder and director Tim Gurner confirmed the developer’s intentions to sell the ultra-luxury private residences but retain ownership of the boutique retreat, spa and public food and beverage offering as part of its multi-billion-dollar diversification strategy.

“Port Douglas has been an incredibly important part of our family’s life over the past 15 years and is without doubt our favourite destination to visit in Australia,” he said.

“We want to give back to this amazing town and create something that does not currently exist.”

Initial town planning designs have been submitted to Douglas Shire Council, with construction earmarked to commence in mid-2021.