Five-storey building in Cowes proposed

A FIVE-STOREY building could be built in the main street of Cowes.

A planning application has been lodged with the Bass Coast Shire Council for a 46-room hotel, with six retail premises and 11 apartments, at 85-87 Thompson Avenue in Cowes.

The planning report submitted with the application said: “The development proposed will comprise an efficient and responsive use of a site, enjoying excellent access to a range of services and facilities, located prominently within the commercial centre of Cowes township. Importantly, the proposal includes provision of a 46-room hotel which will fulfil a critical niche in the range of accommodation offered in this high-profile tourist town.”

It said the subject site was currently developed with a single-storey building occupying a small portion of the land adjacent to Thompson Avenue.

“The site also features a small display and booking kiosk for an outdoor recreation business. Otherwise, the site is largely vacant and has a cover of grass and weeds. The land is relatively flat, with the lowest point located in the south-east corner.”

As of last week, 19 objections had been lodged with the council.

It is worth $12 million, according to documents lodged with the shire.

Any developments worth more than $3 million must go to a council meeting for approval, which means it will ultimately be up to councillors to give it the green light.