The future of Werribee’s Bridge Hotel will soon be determined, with Wyndham council advertising for tenders to revamp and run the iconic venue.
The council has engaged commercial real estate agents Fitzroys to run the expressions of interest campaign and is looking for experienced hospitality operators interested in turning the hotel into a cafe, restaurant, microbrewery, function centre, live music venue or a combination. A 40-year lease of two 20-year terms is being offered.
Wyndham council purchased the hotel site for $5.4 million in August 2016 as part of its plan to rejuvenate Werribee’s CBD. The site has been vacant ever since.
The two-storey art deco heritage building, built in 1926, comprises five main ground-floor bar and function areas and 10 first-floor rooms.
Stuart Kennett from Fitzroys said a preferred party was expected to be selected by mid-year, with the handover of the lease earmarked for September. It is expected to take between six and 12 months to refurbish and fit-out the venue before its grand re-opening.
“[The council] has determined that a hospitality, food and beverage use is preferred for the Bridge Hotel and is seeking an experienced operator that can provide a contemporary hospitality use,” Mr Kennett said.
“We are looking to create an experience and offering that locals are proud to frequent and also gains a reputation as an authentic, quality destination for people from neighbouring communities.
“The Bridge Hotel provides a rare opportunity for the tenant to have significant input and control in the building’s refurbishment and make their mark through an iconic venue.”
