Rooftop bar a ‘unique addition’ to Bellarine entertainment scene

A rooftop bar located on the main street of a busy Bellarine town will be open in time for summer, if the group behind it has their way. Find out where.

Plans have been lodged for a rooftop bar on The Terrace in Ocean Grove. Picture: Phil Yeo.

A rooftop bar with beach views will be built above two existing retail outlets on Ocean Grove’s main street if Geelong council gives the $700,000 project the green light.

The application submitted by Melbourne-based architectural firm UXD Group on behalf of an unnamed local resident who would own and operate the bar is out for public consultation until April 18.

Nominally known as The Sunset Bar, the venue would be located above Lilly Bliss Lingerie and Blush Bar at 70 The Terrace.

Capable of holding 80 people, the proposed operating hours are from midday to 10pm and access would be from a spiral staircase located at the front of Lilly Bliss.

Plans have been lodged with Geelong council for a rooftop bar on The Terrace in Ocean Grove. Source: UXD Group.

UXD director Beau O’Brien said Ocean Grove currently lacked a venue of its type and hoped it would open in time for summer.

“With the site’s unique ocean aspects, we believe this is a venue which all the community can share within and benefit from,” he said.

“We believe that the proposed rooftop bar will contribute to a more sustainable and thriving township.

“It will create employment opportunities, attract tourism and reinforce the strip shopping within The Terrace as Ocean Grove’s town centre.”

The bar would be located above Lilly Bliss Lingerie and Blush Bar at 70 The Terrace. Picture: Phil Yeo.

The application notes the potential impact on a “minor residential area” located at the rear of the building.

Measures such as soundproofing and the responsible service of alcohol would be implemented to minimise disturbances.

“The proposed rooftop bar has the potential to enhance the area’s appeal further, providing a unique social experience for patrons while capitalising on the scenic views and coastal ambience,” the application states.

“However, careful consideration must be given to mitigate any negative impacts on the residential enclave behind the site.

“Residents in the area have a reasonable expectation of peace and quiet, particularly during night time hours.

“While some level of activity is expected in a tourist destination like Ocean Grove, measures should be implemented to minimise noise, traffic, and other disturbances emanating from the rooftop bar.”

It is hoped the bar will open later this year. Source: UXD Group.

A venue and patron management plan formed part of the application, with the 12-page document outlining policies on a wide range of issues.

Originally published as Rooftop bar a ‘unique addition’ to Bellarine entertainment scene