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Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project begins, for safer, more accessible visitor experience from $9.6M shared investment

Work has begun on the $9.6 million Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project, delivering staged upgrades to create a safer, more accessible, pedestrian-friendly destination while supporting businesses and preserving Cowes' vibrant visitor appeal.

By news@gippsland - 18th September 2025 - Back to News

Work has commenced on the Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project, which will make the foreshore even better, safer and more accessible for Philip Island visitors and residents. This major project is being delivered through $8 million funding from the Australian government's Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program and $1.6 million from council.

Today's event previewed the Trading Through Transformation campaign, highlighting Cowes businesses, visitor support, and council collaboration to maintain local strength

Cowes, on Phillip Island, is one of Victoria's most popular visitor destinations, known for its calm beaches, Little Penguins and vibrant shopping and dining scene. The Cowes Foreshore Precinct Project will upgrade Thompson Avenue North and The Esplanade between Bass Avenue and Warley Avenue. Works will roll out across 7 stages to minimise disruption for businesses and the community, keeping Cowes accessible for locals and visitors throughout construction.

Cowes foreshore upgrades

Stage 1 will run from September to December 2025 focusing on essential upgrades to water, sewer and storm water, as well as new kerbs, lighting and landscaping. This will help deliver a more pedestrian-friendly precinct with improved pavements and space for outdoor dining.

This project builds on the Cowes Streetscape Master Plan and follows other major projects including the Cowes Jetty Triangle, the Cowes Transit Centre and the much-loved cultural centre, Berninneit. The Cowes business district has more than 200 shopfronts, almost 60 per cent of them retail and hospitality, making it the perfect spot to shop, dine and unwind overlooking Western Port.

Council has worked closely with local businesses throughout planning and design, to ensure businesses stay strong during the works. Today's event also teased a sneak peek of the Trading through the Transformation campaign, which will spotlight local businesses, remind visitors that Cowes is open, and encourage everyone to support locals. Expect wayfinding signage, marketing support and plenty of reminders that Cowes is thriving during construction.

Work has commenced on the Cowes Foreshore Precinct project, which officially turned soil today at a sod turn attended by Senator for Victoria, Michelle Ananda-Rajah, Bass Coast Shire Council and contractor Fulton Hogan, the project will make the foreshore even better, safer, and more accessible for Phillip Island

MotoGP Festival continues

And for MotoGP fans, the party is still on. The 2025 Cowes MotoGP Entertainment Precinct will go ahead as planned, continuing to transform Cowes into a buzzing festival hub. Last year's event drew over 6,000 people into the heart of Cowes, and nothing about that excitement changes.

The sod turn was attended by Senator for Victoria, Michelle Ananda-Rajah, representing Federal Minister for Regional Development and Local Government, Kristy McBain. More information is available at Engage Bass Coast Shire Council website.

Cowes future strengthened

Federal Senator for Victoria Michelle Ananda-Rajah said, "Cowes Foreshore is the economic heart of the township, and these upgrades will refresh the precinct to advance further activity and enjoyment for locals and visitors."

Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead said, "This is such an exciting moment for Cowes. The Foreshore Precinct Project will not only transform the heart of our town but will strengthen Cowes as one of Victoria's premier visitor destinations."

"We know construction means change, but our Trading through Transformation campaign is about ensuring businesses thrive during this period. Cowes is open, vibrant, and ready to welcome you. And for those already planning their MotoGP weekend - don't worry, the celebrations in Cowes will be just as big as ever," she said.

Pictures from Bass Coast Shire website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com