The development application for the upgrade of the Medlow Bath tourism accommodation icon was lodged in late September and will be determined by the Western Sydney Joint Regional Planning Panel because it is a regionally significant project.

The design team say they are working with a spirit and vision not unlike that of Mark Foy when he began the creation of his dream health spa resort, incrementally stretching one kilometre along the escarpment over more than 100 years.

The project is under the guidance of heritage consultant Graham Brooks who is closely working with Blue Mountains resident and historian, Dr Jim Smith.

Distinguished Australian architect Robert Costa has a long history with the building and brings intimate local knowledge to the project.

“The Hydro Majestic has never been a static development and its evolving nature allows for each generation to apply its own mark on the building as a legacy for the next,” Mr Costa said.

“We now plan to add the 21st century layer, mindful of the past, but always with a vision to the future.”

Part of the strategic revision of the hotel is to make it a five-star luxury resort hotel and spa as well as a luxury conference and business hotel with access to public facilities.

International interior designer Peter Reeve will harness the atmosphere and mood of the Hydro Majestic to create luxurious, historically inspired interiors which reference the past and fold into the present.

“The years of complaints about small guest rooms and bathrooms, no real access to views and a lack of facilities will be over,” said Mr Reeve.

“A suite of magnificent lobbies, bars and lounges, restaurants and fine dining locations will meet the needs of a discerning market and Mr Foy’s initial vision for the Hydro will be revived with the creation of an international spa and treatment facility.”

Blue Mountains based landscape architect and heritage consultant David Beaver will revisit the grand gardens of the Blue Mountains with inspiration from legendary landscape architect, Paul Sorensen.

Another exciting aspect historian and author Dr Jim Smith will be exploring is restoration of the historical Hydro Majestic walking trails that were a landmark in a bygone era and are among the largest privately owned series of tracks in the world.

The works will also include an historical research centre and library within the heritage Hargravia Building.