Phillip Island’s iconic Isle of Wight Hotel is on the road to being redeveloped after being destroyed by fire twice
A popular pub that has gone up in flames twice will be rebuilt, with plans for a hotel, wellness centre and restaurant released. See the proposal.
Bass Coast News
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After laying dormant for more than a decade, the site of a former popular pub that burnt down on Phillip Island is set to become a multimillion dollar development.
The Isle of Wight, on the Esplanade of Cowes, was an iconic and important location which was twice destroyed by fire, most recently in 2010.
In 2021, developer Moda, purchased the site and now Moda and CLG have submitted plans to council for approval of a brand new hotel, dining and retail precinct to bring the site “back to life”.
Designed by Alexander & Co, the proposed plans include a 160-room hotel, a signature restaurant, a large-scale event space, a state-of-the-art wellness centre, and a pool deck that will overlook the foreshore and Western Port.
The 8600 sqm plus parcel of land fronts The Esplanade and Bass Ave.
Bass Coast Shire Council confirmed on Thursday that plans had been submitted to develop the new hotel.
“The Council is unable to comment on specific plans at this stage, but the proposed development does reflect the significant investment in quality tourism that Phillip Island is increasingly attracting,” a spokesperson said.
The site has seen many memorable moments like visits by Hollywood stars Fred Astaire, Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner and Tony Perkins for filming of the box office hit On the Beach.
Moda managing director Ed Farquharson said the proposed development would mark the welcome return of a landmark Phillip Island tourism destination.
“The Isle of Wight Hotel was an icon of Cowes for many decades,” he said.
“We’re looking forward to capturing the nostalgia and spirit of the original hotel and bringing it back to life with new energy for a whole new generation.”
According to Mr Farquharson, the precinct will deliver an estimated $55m to $76m boost to the local economy annually.
CLG chief executive Tim Fitzgerald said CLG and Moda looked forward to continuing to work constructively with council, recognising the “catalytic nature” of the development for the town and broader region.
“We’re excited to work with the community and council in bringing about a new era for tourism on the island, and raising the bar for what people can expect from accommodation, dining, and entertainment in regional Victoria,” he said.
“We anticipate the development will provide over 150 new employment opportunities in the region.”
It’s anticipated the new hotel will open in 2025.
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