It has not yet been decided whether a planning permit application for a proposed $8 million upgrade to the long-closed Romsey Hotel will be decided by Macedon Ranges councillors, or by council officers under delegation.
Council’s director of planning and environment, Rebecca Stockfeld, stated this in response to queries raised by the Express last week.
Ms Stockfeld said planning application PLN/2026/219 sought approval for alterations and additions to the existing hotel and car park, with provision for 17 car spaces.
“The application is currently under assessment. Council has requested further information from the applicant and the application cannot progress to the next stage of the assessment process until this information is received.”
Once requested information is provided, council will continue its assessment, including consideration of any public notice requirements and opportunities for community feedback.
Ms Stockfeld said the timeframe for a decision “is currently unknown, as it will depend on when the requested information is submitted, and whether any further information is required.”
HOGAN TO RUN NEW ENTERPRISE
Hotelier-businessman Jim Hogan, who owns the site and adjoining land also had a long association with Bendigo’s historic Shamrock Hotel and rejuvenated the Wallan Hotel (Hogan’s Hotel).
He intends to run the new-look Romsey Hotel, describing it as a fabulous asset for the community.
Plans provide for a cafe/bakery, saloon bar, private dining room, family bistro, kids’ playroom, al fresco dining and a function room suitable for weddings and other celebratory activities.
Mr Hogan is confident the development will be approved and become successful, driving economic growth in the town and becoming a real hotspot for tourism.
District tradespeople will be offered opportunities, and a large number of casual, part-time and full-time jobs will become available when the revitalised project becomes operational.
For many years there was a running battle over whether or not poker machines should be introduced into the Romsey Hotel, with many divided views in the district populace.
The pokies episode began in December 2004, with the shire council knocking back an application to extend the hotel and install 30 poker machines.
A legal stand-off went on for five years before VCAT president Justice Kevin Bell handed down his decision to reject the application, much to the satisfaction of the shire council and objectors.
Finally the hotel closed in 2017, and since that time, there has been much community speculation on what may eventually happen at this prime location.
The Romsey Hotel was originally known as the Post Office Hotel, first licensed in 1867. It was renamed Romsey Hotel in 1980. Back in 1882, Romsey had six hotels.
