Surf Coast Shire Council has granted a planning permit for an Anglesea liquor store to operate as a bottle shop and wine bar.
The decision to grant a permit for the general licensed premises – located at 85 Great Ocean Road in the town’s commercial hub – was made at the August council meeting.
Cr Gary Allen said the application adheres to the requirements of the Surf Coast Planning Scheme.
“It is an appropriate use of the land, and will add to the mix of uses within the Anglesea town centre,” Cr Allen said.
The applicant has proposed that indoor patron numbers be capped at 18 – consisting of eight seats and 10 bottle shop customers. The application stated there would be no live music or DJ onsite, no patron access via the rear door, and food offerings would be antipasto.
Surf Coast Shire Council received 10 objections to the planning permit application, including a 269-signature petition which was noted at the May council meeting.
It shared concerns such as the potential amenity impact, and that the proposed trading to 11pm seven nights a week being inconsistent with nearby shops.
“We thank the community members who took the time to make a submission and present their views to the Council,” Cr Allen said.
“As a result, the applicant proposed amendments. This included improving signage to meet design standards that complement the town’s coastal village character, and reducing the trading hours, with an earlier closing time of 9.30pm. A condition was also added for staff to conduct a daily site and perimeter check to collect any litter.”
