Plans submitted for winery, 20 accommodation pods, day spa on Bentons Rd, Moorooduc
Mornington Peninsula paddocks once used to graze cattle could be transformed into a winery host farm with day spa and restaurant.
South East
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A bold plan to transform empty paddocks into a host farm with a wellness centre and restaurant is being considered for the Mornington Peninsula.
The local council has received an application to build a winery with 20 accommodation pods and parking for 100 cars on 11ha in Moorooduc.
The proposal is believed to be the first of its kind for the northern end of the peninsula which has limited tourist accommodation beyond private short stay rentals.
If the plan gets to nod from Mornington Peninsula Shire, guests would be able to sleep among the vines, sample the wines and unwind in a wellness centre complete with day spa and pool, six treatment rooms, pilates and yoga studios and a dining area.
Only those staying at the Bentons Road property would be able to access the wellness centre.
Each accommodation pod would include a bedroom, sitting area and ensuite.
A deck would offer views of the vines and a private spa.
The winery would be licensed for 100 patrons and operate daily from 11am to 7pm.
The proposal includes a two storey house with seven bedrooms and bathrooms and a triple car garage.
According to the plans the property owner would live in the house to cater for guest needs and run the winery.
Many locals have backed the proposal saying it would bring jobs and much needed accommodation options.
“Bring it on,” Aaron Pinxt posted online.
“More world class facilities mean more jobs for our locals and our kids as they grow up.”
“It will give work to trades too,” Colin Scanlon added.
However, not everyone was in favour of the proposal which was in a green wedge zone.
Shelia Gabrielson feared it would bring traffic congestion, noise and light pollution.
“If we don’t start objecting to these over-the-top developments, there’ll be nothing left before know it. We’ll be just another suburb,” she said.
Records show the property last sold in 2017 for $2m to a private company based out of West Footscray.
The application will be considered by the council later this year.
