This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
ST Kilda’s iconic The Espy hotel is believed to have been sold to hospitality group Sand Hill Road, after nearly two years of having its doors shut.
The 139-year old National Trust-listed venue is reportedly set to retain its quintessential live music aspect, but undergo a major refurbishment under its new owners.
It was listed for sale three years ago and failed to sell before closing up in 2015, as a proposed 145sqm rooftop terrace prompted pushback from surrounding neighbours.
Melbourne-based Sand Hill Road also owns the CBD’s Garden State Hotel, Abbotsford’s Terminus Hotel, the Prahran Hotel, and the Bridge Hotel, Holliava, the Posty and Richmond Club Hotel in Richmond.
The group is believed to have recently bought King Street’s Waterside Hotel.
The Esplanade Hotel was acquired in 1995 by Carlton and United Breweries and onsold it to Becton, whose attempts to build a 35-storey tower behind the venue were shut down by residents.
Since 2006 it has since been owned by former nightclub operators Vince Sofo and Paul Adamo.
Australian Property Journal
