JENOLAN Caves' historic Caves House hotel will be transformed into a five-star destination under a $10.4 million funding commitment from the NSW Government.
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Deputy premier John Barilaro and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole were at the Oberon district drawcard on Wednesday afternoon to make the announcement.
"Today is not an election commitment, it's money in the bank," Mr Barilaro said.
It follows an $8.5 million grant announced by the NSW Government in April last year to upgrade Jenolan Caves, including improvements to the entrance, gift shop and guides office, the introduction of a theatrette, additions to the existing walking tracks and boardwalks around the Blue Lake.
Mr Barilaro and Mr Toole said the $10.4 million would be used to refurbish all 36 guest rooms at Caves House, including providing ensuites for each room.
They said the hotel’s grand dining room, reception and entry areas would be improved and heating, cooling and power systems would be upgraded.
“These upgrades will bring architect Walter Liberty Vernon’s romantic vision to life, paying homage to Cave House’s rich history and heritage while also providing visitors with a modern five-star accommodation experience,” Mr Toole said.
“These upgrades will not only benefit the Blue Mountains tourist economy, but also provide proper disability access to Caves House and ensure the 1880s era hotel complies with modern building standards.”
Mr Barilaro said the new funding boost would increase tourism numbers "and provide countless flow-on benefits for local businesses and the community".
"More visitors means more heads on beds and more diners in local restaurants,” he said.
He said tourism was a key industry for the state's regions.
Voters will go to the polls for the NSW election on March 23.
Incumbent Mr Toole is running, for the Nationals, against the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers' Brenden May and Labor's Beau Riley.
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