Moda and Morris Hospitality submit plans for Isle of Wight Hotel redevelopment
3 Mins·15 Feb, 2023
Morris Hospitality and developers Moda have lodged an initial town planning application submission with Bass Coast Shire Council to bring back to life the iconic Isle of Wight Hotel, located on Phillip Island.
The proposed project aims to build a brand new hotel, dining and retail precinct, with a vision of revising a much-loved community focal point to be enjoyed by Phillip Island locals, holidaymakers and future generations alike.
Designed by award-winning Alexander & Co (Burleigh Pavilion, Manly Wharf Bar, Imperial Hotel), the proposed plans include a circa 160-room hotel, ground floor F&B facilities, a signature restaurant, a large-scale event space, a state-of-the-art wellness centre and a pool deck that will take in the spectacular north-facing views over the foreshore and Western Port.
A location rich in history, the 8600sqm plus parcel of land fronts The Esplanade and Bass Avenue and was once home to Phillip Island’s first hotel, the iconic 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 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. 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,”
Ed Farquharson, CEO, Moda
Isle of Wight render
“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 $55-$76M boost to the local economy annually.”
Morris Hospitality Chief Executive Officer, Tim Fitzgerald said Morris Hospitality and Moda look 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.”
The site was purchased in January 2021 by Moda Phillip Island Pty Ltd which comprises, Moda, Salta Capital and Tabet Development Group, with Morris Hospitality planning for a 2026 opening date.