Developers submit second application for $10 million Estella hotel-tavern mega pub

A bistro, sports bar, drive-through bottle-o and more are part of a massive hotel and tavern proposal which could still be on the cards for northern Wagga after its initial refusal.

Developers of a $10m mega pub in the growing Wagga suburb of Estella have submitted a second application for their project after council rejected its submission last year. Picture: Salvestro Planning

Developers pushing for a $10 million mega pub in a northern Wagga will have another bite of the cherry after having previous plans for the project rejected by council.

The Trustee for Estella Hotel Holdings Unit Trust submitted a second development application in December for its multimillion dollar hotel-tavern and drive-through bottle shop in Estella following the initial knock back.

A Wagga Council spokesman previously said it wasn’t clear “what consent was sought” and the application did not provide “the required information to allow for an assessment to occur”.

Developers hope to construct a three-level establishment along Avocet Dr, bordering the new Estella Central Shopping Centre which is under construction.

Artist impressions of the new pub at Estella. Picture: Salvestro Planning

The proposed establishment would adjoin the new shopping centre in Estella. Picture: Salvestro Planning

The basement level would include a drive-through bottle shop, storerooms, a bulk liquor and keg room and parking, among other amenities.

The ground floor is set to feature a bistro, lounge, sports bar/TAB area, gaming area, kitchen, and terraces, along with a children’s play area.

The next level would include two function rooms, a cocktail bar, outdoor terrace, balcony, another bar and other amenities.

Live music has been proposed for the terrace area, cocktail bar, and in function rooms, but only one act would perform at any time.

A bird’s eye view of the site. Picture: Salvestro Planning

The proposed development will consist of three levels. Picture: Salvestro Planning

Development documents state the mega pub would service the developing northern suburbs and have a “strong focus on a family friendly environment” and a “contemporary food and dining experience”.

The build would allow for new recreational and entertainment opportunities for the community.

Pitched as “family friendly”, developers believe the pub would create “more social cohesion” and a “better way of life” for customers.

Developers consulted with council on May 15 and December 1 last year.

Matters considered include the impact the pub will have on the neighbourhood, including crime and safety, as well as traffic considerations, noise impact, visual impact and its integration with the surrounding environment.

Another artist impression of the new pub. Picture: Salvestro Planning

The site in Estella currently. Picture: Salvestro Planning

Once operational, the venue would have capacity to accommodate 980 punters, with the bistro be able to host 260 patrons at capacity.

Developers state the pub would create up to 15 full-time and 45 casual positions.

The sports bar and gaming room would likely operate from 10am to 3am, while the bottle shop would be open from 10am to 12pm.

The pub would also operate a courtesy bus service.