The Victorian Government has refused to extend a permit to redevelop the historic Windsor Hotel in Melbourne.
The developers are proposing to demolish part of the rear of the Hotel Winsor and build a new 26-storey luxury hotel behind it.
It is the fourth time the developers have asked for more time since the original application was granted in 2010. The developers have until 31 March, 2020, to complete work.
The proposed hotel is almost 92 metres tall, almost 52 metres higher than the current 25 metre height restriction on Spring street and the 40-metre height limit at the rear in Windsor Place.
Planning scheme amendments, made in consultation with the community, mean the permit would have been refused if it was made today.
Related stories:
- Concrete pour means airport hotel ready for takeoff
- Luxury hotel construction to create 500 local jobs
- Construction begins on $200M luxury hotel
Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne said the developers have failed to secure finance or show a willingness to get construction started despite having nine years to do so.
“If the same application for development was brought to me today, I would have to reject it immediately – planning rules and community expectations have changed,” Wynne said.
“The Windsor Hotel is a Melbourne icon and we’re protecting it – and the unique character of the Bourke Hill precinct.”
Hotel Windsor was built in 1883 and is of architectural and historical significance to the State of Victoria. It is listed on the Victorian heritage register and protected by a heritage overlay, meaning the owners must maintain it and not allow it to fall into disrepair.