IQALUIT
The Frobisher Inn is constructing a new conference centre but Nunavut Tourism says it might be a while before it gathers steam.

The Frobisher Inn is currently undergoing renovations that will include a new conference centre and room improvements. - photo courtesy of Frobisher Inn

Rainer Launhardt, vice-president of hotels at Nunastar, said renovations at the hotel will accommodate 450 people, making it the largest facility in the territory.

"It's already being built in old pool area," he said.

Launhardt said construction is set to start at the beginning of the year. The new conference centre will total 9,500 square feet, and the plan is to open in October.

"It has really great view of Frobisher Bay," he said. "The view will be spectacular."

The Frobisher Inn is also renovating half of the hotel, approximately 50 of its rooms. The changes include new closets that include a microwave, fridges and a new bathroom, said Launhardt. However, he said the start date for the work heavily depends on the sea lift, which he said is late this year.

The hotel is also planning on changing its dining room into a new restaurant that will have a new brand, but Launhardt did not disclose how the brand would change or the budget for the renovations.

Even with increased awareness about the new facilities at the Frobisher Inn, there's no guarantee the hotel will see an increase in the number of conference bookings during the next 12 months.

That's because outgoing Nunavut Tourism CEO Colleen Dupuis said one of the biggest difficulties in booking conferences and meetings was the long required lead time.

"Sometimes their planning cycle is 24 to 36 months out," she said. "Our goal is to have a minimum of two or three per year."

Other challenges Dupuis cited were timing and the high cost of airfare.

"A lot of them are not interested in coming in January or February," she said. "It's a bit too severe for weather."

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