Locals want former Isle of Wight Hotel site redeveloped
When the iconic Isle of Wight went up in flames in 2010, locals and tourists alike shed a tear for the grand old pub. But more than a decade later, fed up residents say it’s time the prime site was redeveloped.
Bass Coast News
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Residents in Phillip Island are calling on the redevelopment of a former Cowes pub site which has been left vacant for years.
The popular Isle of Wight Hotel burnt down in 2010 after a fire ravaged the 1920s building.
At the time of the blaze, the pub was due to be demolished and a five-star hotel was going to be built in it’s place.
Those plans fell through with the site being left empty for 10 years.
Phillip Island resident Vicki Ransom said something needs to be done as soon as possible.
“It’s just a disgrace that an empty block is in the heart of Cowes,” Ms Ransom said.
“It could be an amazing landmark for the village looking over the pier and the triangle”.
Mark Grasso said he use to love Isle of Wight but is frustrated with the vacant land.
“It’s a disgrace that it was never rebuilt and nothing is there still to this day”.
The 8625sq m site that covers 9-10 The Esplanade and 2-8 Bass Ave, is surrounded by a fence and 24 hour video surveillance.
Locals hope the vacant land is developed into something that everyone can enjoy.
Some suggestions include a water park, boutique hotel, play centre and cafe but others hope the iconic Isle of Wight Hotel is rebuilt.
Colin Snowden believes a rebuild will attract more tourists to the island.
“They would come from far and wide,” he said.
Pam Magg said she would love to see “old fashioned proper pub where you can sit and enjoy inexpensive drinks and plain but good bar meals”.
“A couple of pool tables … live bands on the weekend, family spit roasts on Sunday … happy hour and bar snack 5pm-6pm every night”.
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