Hospitality group CLG and developers Moda are seeking planning approvals for the redevelopment of Phillip Island’s iconic Isle of Wight Hotel into a vibrant hotel, dining and retail precinct.
Designed by Alexander and Co, the proposed plans include a circa 160-room hotel, ground floor F&B facilities including a signature restaurant, a large-scale event space, state-of-the-art wellness centre and a pool deck.
The 8600sqm site, which was purchased in January 2021 by Moda Phillip Island Pty, was home to Phillip Island’s first hotel The Isle of Wight which opened in 1870 before being destroyed by a fire in 1925 and again, in 2010.
Moda Managing Director Ed Farquharson said the accommodation and retail offering could provide a major economic boost to the area.
“The Isle of Wight Hotel was an icon of Cowes for many decades,” she 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.
“Along with returning The Isle of Wight Pub, our proposed development seeks to incorporate hotel accommodation, a dining precinct overlooking the beach, extensive event facilities, and a laneway retail precinct set to include a wellness centre and other speciality stores, providing an estimated AU$55-$76 million boost to the local economy annually.”
CLG is hopeful of the new hotel opening in 2025 opening should planning be approved.
“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,” said CLG Chief Executive Officer, Tim Fitzgerald.
“We anticipate the development will provide over 150 new employment opportunities in the region.”