Albany hotel development call
The State Government is calling for interest from developers to build on Albany’s former Esplanade Hotel site.
Vacant land sits idle. (2012 file picture: The West Australian)
It bought the 1.3ha lot at Middleton Beach for $7 million in November amid community anger about the prime land sitting idle since the hotel was demolished in 2007.
Lands Minister Terry Redman said yesterday the Government was seeking registrations of interest to deliver a new activity centre and visitor destination at the popular beach.
A preferred development concept plan would align community expectation with the needs of developers.
“This is one of those rare opportunities for developers to invest in a true beachfront project that will be transformational for the community and tourism in the Great Southern region,” Mr Redman said.
The aim for the site is a community hub, with restaurants, cafes, shops, spas, a hotel, short-stay accommodation and permanent residential apartments, according to the Middleton Beach Activity Centre Improvement Plan.
Albany MP Peter Watson said the community consultation was great, but it was disappointing the project was moving so slowly.
“We’ve got the most expensive sandpit in the world on our prime beach,” he said.
“We are crying out for it at Middleton Beach.”
Source: The West Australian, Phoebe Wearne, June 23rd 2015
