Vote on project

$70m Apollo Bay hotel bid

COLAC Otway Shire is preparing to pass the buck on the controversial $70 million hotel resort in Apollo Bay.

The council will decide tomorrow if it should follow an internal recommendation to hand total control of the largescale project to Planning Minister Richard Wynne.

The vote comes amid growing unrest in the Great Ocean Road township about the multi-stage development, which if fully realised would cost an estimated $250 million.

The application has generated more than 155 objections and 10 submissions of support.

Apollo Bay Chamber of Commerce had initially expressed support for the project, but after a special meeting of members has since adopted a neutral stance. A meeting held last month by Otway Forum, which drew a crowd of more than 100, resulted in a motion to oppose the venture.

Stage one of the proposal involves: 180 HOTEL style rooms; 82 VILLAS used in conjunction with the hotel; A HOTEL bar, all-day dining restaurant, main restaurant, retail tenancies and observatory; A WELLNESS centre and a 25m swimming pool; and, ACCOMMODATION for 40 staff.

Oceans United Investment Group, which includes prominent businessman Graham Duff, would build the resort on an inland block on Barham River Rd now owned by former mayor Frank Buchanan.

Council officers recommend the proposal be given to Mr Wynne, given its regional and state implications. The council would retain the ability to provide an opinion on the merits of the proposal and advocate on behalf of residents.

The proponents suggest the $70 million first stage would create 250 jobs during construction and 175 jobs for its ongoing operations.