Phillip Island's tourism and community heart of Cowes will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly township that fully embraces its historic foreshore, thanks to $8 million in new Federal Government funding for Bass Coast Shire Council's Cowes Foreshore Precinct project.
Approved through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, this project will revitalise Cowes and 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 investment will create a destination that both creates a vibrant neighbourhood for the Phillip Island community and appeals to visitors year-round, encouraging longer stays and increased spending.
Bass Coast Shire Council Chief Executive Officer Greg Box expressed his gratitude to the Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, the Hon Catherine King MP, for her support of the Cowes community. "The Cowes streetscape masterplan 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,'' Mr. Box said. "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."
The Cowes Foreshore Precinct project will enhance connectivity between the township and the foreshore, providing improved pedestrian safety, accessibility, and amenities. This transformation will also support further commercial activity within the Foreshore Precinct, strengthening Cowes as a vibrant place to experience Phillip Island's unique hospitality, shopping, and community life. The Foreshore Precinct includes the section of Thompson Avenue from Chapel Street to the Foreshore and the Esplanade.
The works will compliment recent Council and private investment, including the Jetty Triangle upgrades, transit centre, Berninneit and the $130 million Isle of Wight accommodation and retail development. Together, these initiatives will connect Cowes' main shopping strip with its beautiful foreshore, embracing the magnificent views, increasing greenery and creating a destination that offers a rich blend of seaside hospitality, shopping, and community experience.
"The profile of Cowes has never been higher," Mr. Box added, referencing the exposure Phillip Island has received through *The Block*, which has showcased Cowes to millions of Australians and overseas viewers. "This project will bring Cowes' main street and foreshore together, making it an even better place to visit, live, and explore year-round."
