Wollongong RSL Set for Demolition as $229M Redevelopment Gets Green Light

A landmark site in Wollongong’s CBD is set for a major transformation following the approval of The Globe precinct redevelopment.

The Southern Regional Planning Panel has given the go-ahead for the $229-million project, which will replace the City Diggers Club and the former David Jones building, revitalising a key corner of the city’s centre.

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Spanning a 5400sq m site bounded by Crown Street Mall, Church Street and Burelli Street, the development will introduce a mix of hospitality, commercial, and public spaces. Led by a consortium including Cre8tive Hotels & Lifestyle and Wollongong Golf Club, the project was designed by Wollongong-based ADM Architects in collaboration with Sydney’s Jackson Teece.

At the heart of the redevelopment is a 15-storey, five-star hotel with 236 rooms, set to attract both business and leisure travellers. While no formal branding agreement has been announced, developers have indicated the hotel could align with an internationally recognised operator. An adjacent eight-storey office building will provide over 8300sq m of commercial space, while a new six-storey club and motel will replace the existing Diggers Club. The 114-room motel will be operated by Wollongong Golf Club, which previously owned City Diggers in full.

A defining feature of The Globe precinct is its commitment to connectivity and public amenity. The development will introduce new pedestrian links, improve Globe Lane and Globe Way, and enhance access between Crown Street Mall and MacCabe Park. Plans also include a rooftop pool and a public bar, named Sky Bar, offering panoramic views over the city and coastline.

Sustainability has been factored into the design, with six levels of basement parking incorporating 567 spaces, including 130 with fast-charging electric vehicle stations. The approval follows extensive consultation, with modifications made to address concerns regarding building mass, solar access and pedestrian movement.

Economic projections suggest the development will generate over 1100 full-time equivalent jobs during construction, with 472 ongoing positions once complete. Visitor expenditure linked to the new facilities is estimated to inject up to $30 million annually into the local economy, with significant contributions across retail, hospitality and accommodation sectors.

Demolition work, including the removal of the Diggers Club building and parts of the former David Jones structure, is expected to commence soon. The site, previously home to David Jones until its closure in 2014, has long been seen as underutilised. With this redevelopment, the city is poised to reimagine a key precinct, supporting urban renewal and economic activation in the heart of Wollongong.

Images via The Urban Developer