The Globe Hotel site in Sebastopol is set to be transformed into a service station and fast food outlet after a planning application was lodged with the City of Ballarat.
The 3176 square metre site on the corner of Rubicon and Skipton Streets will become a Hungry Jacks and BP if the application is successful.
The hotel and bottle shop closed in early 2015, and the site has sat vacant since.
Rather than have it continue to sit there empty we can see it transform into what could be a pretty vibrant corner.
- Des Hudson - South Ward councillor
City of Ballarat South Ward councillor Des Hudson was supportive of the plan, saying it would help to boost the local economy and encourage investment in the Sebastopol region.
“It’s great to see another one of the multinationals coming into that Albert St precinct which will hopefully lead to an increase in investment from other businesses,” Cr Hudson said.
“I would imagine the old local pub game is a tough one, and rather than have it continue to sit there empty we can see it transform into what could be a pretty vibrant corner.”
The block is made up of four separate lots of which one sits within a Residential Zone 1, meaning the applicants, Bently Property Group Pty Ltd, will need to gain special consideration to operate in the space. The remaining three lots fall within a mixed use zone.
The Hungry Jacks would feature a drive thru lane with two order points and 34 internal seats. As well as a Hungry Jacks, the four-bowser service station would feature a cafe. If given approval, the complex will run 24 hours a day.
New fencing would be installed around the complex to address noise and light concerns, while fuel drop-offs have been recommended to take place between 7am and 10pm to meet the Environment Protection Authority’s noise guidelines.
Owner of the neighbouring Rubicon Fish Shop Yun Guo said she was opposed to the development as it would make it more difficult for small businesses in the area to remain successful.
“Lots of small business here are closing down and (the installation of a Hungry Jacks) is not good for us,” Ms Guo said.
A decision will not be made until January 19.
