Photo from Lost Newcastle member Muz Anderson
From www.grandmercureapartments.com.au:
Latec House was designed in 1956 by Peddle Thorp & Walker with construction commencing late 1957. The eleven-storey building
was officially opened on 24 April 1959 by The Federal AttorneyGeneral, Sir Garfield Barwick.
At this time Latec House was the tallest building in Newcastle, rising 128 feet above Hunter Street, and was described as being ‘in the heart of the city’s thriving motor industry’.
The last tenants left in May 1988 and the building was never occupied. It was 1988 that saw speculation that the building may become a hotel.
Photo from Newcastle City Council Hunter Photobank
During the demolition process, Victorian-era terraces dating back to 1879 were revealed. These had been hidden behind more modern facades.
Photo from Lost Newcastle member Mark Burrell
I was involved from 1999 when the Waterhouse family purchased it. Worked from day 1 of construction for both the developer and the Chinese builders, right through to the opening of the hotel.. I had my 40th birthday in the Penthouse. I was there the day the receivers walked in and ended the dream. It is my favourite building in town and now I’m not allowed in there. It’s a shame the hotel wasn’t given a go…