The City of Busselton is seeking Expressions of Interest (EoI) from experienced developers/hotel operators and/or a consortium of investors, to create a minimum 4-star equivalent hotel and serviced short-stay apartments, combined with commercial/retail and conference services on the Busselton foreshore.

Council unanimously adopted the Busselton Foreshore Master Plan on 28 March 2012. According to Mayor Ian Stubbs adoption of the Master Plan marked an important milestone for the newly proclaimed City of Busselton.

“Adoption of the Master Plan paves the way for more detailed design and development work along the foreshore”, he said. “Ultimately we aim to create a vibrant leisure and recreation hub for visitors and locals.”

Council hopes to attract development interest in the construction of tourist accommodation up to 4-storeys plus a loft. However, in the first instance Council is keen to gauge the level of commercial interest from suitably experienced organisations.

The City of Busselton is working with the Department of Regional Development and Lands on an integrated land rationalisation process which will enable the consolidation of the primary foreshore reserve to provide improved public access and community facilities.  If the overall rationalisation is approved it will enable a commercial development zone to be established north of Marine Terrace between Queen Street and Brown Street.  The process also seeks to provide for improved recreational facilities and the protection of an identified conservation zone within the reserved land north of Marine Terrace and east of Brown Street.

Interested organisations and individuals can download the EoI documentation by clicking on the following link http://www.busselton.wa.gov.au/hotel_shortstay_accommodationand have until 31 August 2012 to respond.

Council will shortlist respondents and, where applicable, invite more detailed proposals toward the end of the year when greater certainty will be afforded with regard to the tenure arrangements of Crown land proposed for long-term sub-lease for hotel and commercial prospects.

 Ends.

Media enquiries can be directed to the City’s Communications Officer, Meredith Dixon on 97810446 or meredith.dixon@busselton.wa.gov.au