Council has approved a planning application for a new hotel development on the corner of Williamson Street and Mollison Street in central Bendigo.
The application is for the development of a six-storey residential hotel with 105 hotel rooms a multipurpose function space on the first floor, restaurant on the ground floor and 80 car spaces (two basement levels).
City of Greater Bendigo Director Strategy and Growth Bernie O’Sullivan said that the proposed hotel will further activate and promote development and private investment in the city centre and this was a favourable outcome.
“This will be a positive development for the city centre, bringing more quality accommodation options and jobs right in the heart of Bendigo,” Mr O’Sullivan said.
“Attracting and supporting hotel developments has been a Council priority and will further endorse Bendigo’s strong reputation as a key visitor destination.
“It is also a show of confidence that the private sector is choosing Bendigo to invest in, and it provides confidence to other businesses looking to develop in our thriving vibrant city.
“We are also assessing an application for another hotel development, on the opposite corner. This application is for a similar development, with hotel rooms, a restaurant and conference facilities, and onsite parking. This is expected to be decided upon in the coming months.
“Council has already issued a permit for a Mantra hotel development in Hargreaves Mall.
“City officers worked closely with the hotel developers for the new hotel on the corner of Williamson Street and Mollison Street to address feedback about height, scale, heritage and other planning matters.
“Our City Centre Plan supports and encourages this kind of development while balancing the need to protect our heritage buildings, neighbourhood character and provide adequate services.
“Our aim is to bring more people, more often to our city centre, making it a thriving place where people want to visit and work.”
The approved application for the six-storey hotel imposes a number of conditions on the development to address the planning scheme, including being sensitive to adjacent heritage buildings.
