The project will enhance connectivity between the Cowes foreshore and the township.
COWES will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly township that fully embraces its historic foreshore, with $8 million in new Federal Government funding announced today for the council’s Cowes Foreshore Precinct project.
Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, Catherine King, was in Cowes this morning to make the announcement.
Approved through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, it follows many years of community engagement and consultation through the development of the Cowes Activity Centre Plan in 2015 and the Cowes Streetscape Master Plan in 2022.
The project will enhance connectivity between the township and the foreshore, providing improved pedestrian safety, accessibility, and amenities in the section of Thompson Avenue from Chapel Street to the Foreshore and the Esplanade.
It will also support further commercial activity within the precinct, strengthening Cowes as a vibrant place to experience Phillip Island’s unique hospitality, shopping, and community life.
Bass Coast Shire Council CEO Greg Box said works will complement recent council and private investment, including the Jetty Triangle upgrades, transit centre, Berninneit and the $130 million Isle of Wight accommodation and retail development.
“The investment will create a destination that creates a vibrant neighbourhood for the Phillip Island community and appeals to visitors year-round, encouraging longer stays and increased spending.
“The Cowes Streetscape Master Plan project has been discussed and planned for more than 10 years, so it is exciting to finally see the community’s ideas to make Cowes great come to life.
“Cowes is a jewel in the Victorian and Bass Coast regional crown, and this project will ensure it continues to shine for future generations of locals and tourists to enjoy.”
Mr Box said the profile of Cowes had never been higher, referencing the exposure Phillip Island has received through the TV renovation series The Block, which has showcased Cowes to millions of Australians and overseas viewers.
The project will enhance connectivity between the township and the foreshore, providing improved pedestrian safety, accessibility, and amenities in the section of Thompson Avenue from Chapel Street to the Foreshore and the Esplanade.
It will also support further commercial activity within the precinct, strengthening Cowes as a vibrant place to experience Phillip Island’s unique hospitality, shopping, and community life.
Bass Coast Shire Council CEO Greg Box said works will complement recent council and private investment, including the Jetty Triangle upgrades, transit centre, Berninneit and the $130 million Isle of Wight accommodation and retail development.
“The investment will create a destination that creates a vibrant neighbourhood for the Phillip Island community and appeals to visitors year-round, encouraging longer stays and increased spending.
“The Cowes Streetscape Master Plan project has been discussed and planned for more than 10 years, so it is exciting to finally see the community’s ideas to make Cowes great come to life.
“Cowes is a jewel in the Victorian and Bass Coast regional crown, and this project will ensure it continues to shine for future generations of locals and tourists to enjoy.”
Mr Box said the profile of Cowes had never been higher, referencing the exposure Phillip Island has received through the TV renovation series The Block, which has showcased Cowes to millions of Australians and overseas viewers.