Lorne Sea Baths proposed $1.4m expansion amid lease renegotiation

Lorne Sea Baths would be redeveloped into a “leading bathing destination” under a $1.4m plan to rejuvenate the tourist attraction. But first, operators have to renegotiate the lease.

Operators of The Lorne Sea Baths want to renegotiate their lease. Picture: Alan Barber

Lorne Sea Baths would be redeveloped into a “leading bathing destination” under a $1.4m plan to rejuvenate the tourist attraction.

The operators of the precinct have made an application through the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority (GORCAPA) to renegotiate the lease, saying more certainty is needed before it commits to the upgrades.

The existing lease is due to end on October 16, 2030.

Documents submitted by the operators reveal details of the proposed redevelopment, which will only go ahead if the lease is extended.

The upgrade would incorporate a communal bathing pool, smaller private bathing areas, massage treatment rooms, a central reception and amenities area.

“The project will also include thalassotherapy that will provide a major marketing point of difference from other spa venues in the state,” the business case reads.

“The development has been identified as providing increased tourism visitation to the

Lorne, increased employment and a valued community facility for the Local Government

Area.

“To realise the project a total of $470,000 is being sought from the Regional Tourism

Infrastructure with the proponent providing a further $940,000 if the state funding is received.”

Lorne Sea Baths. Picture: Alison Wynd

According to the proposal, it’s anticipated that by the fifth year of operation the centre would attract 50,000 adult spa and pool visits, including swimming and other treatments, with about half of the visitors expected to stay overnight.

The baths date back to the 1930s with the last major redevelopment occurring in 2010, the documents state.

The operators claim the business has seen a 50 per cent decline in revenue and visitation since the pandemic, with the drop partly attributed to insurance issues preventing the reopening of the centre’s popular trampoline park.

“If The Lorne Sea baths is to maintain its reputation as a quality wellness destination, and if it is to continue to attract thousands of visitors to the Great Ocean Road region the facilities must be renovated to align with consumer expectations,” the business case read.

A cost-benefit analysis of the project states that if the proposed lease extension is not granted the redevelopment will not be financially viable.

Feedback received during this consultation period will be provided to GORCAPA and the boar will

The board will assess the feedback and proposal and determine if a new lease should be endorsed.

GORCAPA is seeking public feedback on the proposed lease extension until May 5 and an online webinar will be held on April 26 at 5.30pm.

For more information visit greatoceanroadauthority.vic.gov.au.

Originally published as Lorne Sea Baths proposed $1.4m expansion amid lease renegotiation