IHG Hotels & Resorts has opened its newest Holiday Inn property, Holiday Inn Dandenong, in Melbourne’s south east.

Hotel owner, The Pelligra Group, invested $12 million in transforming and constructing the next-generation Holiday Inn, which showcases the brand’s innovative Open Lobby concept, conference rooms, and the Dandelion Lounge + Eatery.

Situated in the bustling business and entertainment district at 50-52 McCrae Street, Holiday Inn Dandenong features 124 rooms in total – 108 of which have undergone a complete transformation, and an additional 16 newly built rooms.

Catering to both business and leisure guests, the configurations include king suites, double premium rooms, and queen standard rooms. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness centre, secure underground parking, 24/7 in-room dining, and same-day laundry services.

The property boasts 154 square meters of function spaces, including the spacious Dandenong Room, which can accommodate up to 120 people or be divided into two smaller rooms. Additionally, there is a bright and separate boardroom designed for smaller meetings.

All meeting and event rooms are equipped with built-in AV facilities, including drop-down screens and projectors. Lecterns and in-room buffets are available to meet various event requirements. For special celebrations, the Dandenong Room can be transformed into a ballroom with the addition of a dance floor.

With a design that characterises Melbourne, the property features offers inviting and pleasant spaces, which Holiday Inn Dandenong general manager Scott Schaefer said are designed to be a place where visitors and locals can conduct business and connect.

“Whether you’re spending time away with friends and family, or connecting over business, the hotel provides a warm and welcoming environment at an affordable price point,” Schaefer said.

The Victorian Government has committed $290 million to transform Central Dandenong into a vibrant economic centre, with the project initiated in 2006 and expected to be completed by 2030. Schaefer said the opening of the hotel has marked a new milestone in the project.

“We see the launch of this new Holiday Inn as another milestone in Dandenong’s revitalisation, with the area being a hub for various workforces including manufacturing and construction, as well as education and health services.”