Council supports Dennis Street development

Published on 07 December 2023

A proposed accommodation and function venue in Dennis Street, Colac was supported at Council’s December Planning Committee meeting on Wednesday.

The three-storey venue will provide 20 one-bedroom residential hotel rooms, offices, a medical centre, gym, café, function room and basement car park.

Mayor Marg White said it will be an innovative development providing a new offering for Colac.

“The building is an exciting development for Colac and is quite different to anything we currently have in town.

“It will be a mixed-use venue which will provide a range of economic benefits in attracting visitors to the region, supporting the employment of local people and another accommodation option in the centre of Colac.

“We’ve identified a need for broader accommodation options to support growth in Colac and this development is a positive step forward for Colac and the wider region.

“As a Council, we want to continue to do what we can to have a vibrant CBD that attracts investment in Colac Otway and it’s pleasing this development is being done by local people to benefit and support the local community.

Cr White acknowledged that there had been some opposition to the development from residents of neighbouring properties.

“I’d like to acknowledge the objectors who presented their views and concerns toward this development throughout the planning process.

“The concerns expressed are understandable, the development will be a big change for this part of Colac and surrounding areas. It was helpful for Councillors to visit the Dennis Street site and meet with objectors to hear their views firsthand.

“Dennis Street is a commercial zone however abuts Manifold Street which is zoned residential. This requires thoughtful consideration, which I think was reflected in the meeting.

“Council appreciates the steps taken by the applicant to address issues raised such as noise and amenity to the area.

“There are a number of conditions in the Notice of a Decision to Grant a Planning Permit that aim to address the concerns of nearby residents to mitigate the impact of a new development in the area, including a green wall at the back of the property that backs on to houses.”