Port lease confirmed
The Shire of Campaspe yesterday confirmed Echuca Murray Pty Ltd (an entity of Paul Jarman and partners) as tenants to the high profile building fronting Murray Esplanade in the Port of Echuca precinct.
Mayor, Cr Leigh Wilson, said Echuca Murray Pty Ltd was announced as the preferred applicant in September 2015 following an expression of interest process to lease the site. Council subsequently advertised its intention to lease the site inviting submissions in line with the Local Government Act.
"We received five submissions and carefully deliberated and considered these. Yesterday morning three of the submitters chose to speak, following which a final outcome to progress discussions for a lease was approved," Cr Wilson.
"Council authorised the Chief Executive to start the lease negotiations."
"The proposal by Echuca Murray Pty Ltd offers a high quality dining experience through a restaurant and function centre, across the two riverfront buildings at 52-56 Murray Esplanade, Echuca (formerly occupied by Oscar W's Wharfside Redgum Bar and Grill and the Port Gift shop)."
"Council recognises community concern and interest in the leasing of this high profile site. We have tried to progress the issue, whilst keeping in line with our statutory requirements in the Local Government Act.
“During the submission process, the issue of the lease area available to applicants was raised. While the concept plans in part may have been outside the lease areas available, the evaluation panel did not consider this issue as part of their evaluation as it was not part of the criteria.
“The preferred applicant for this lease has advised that the final plans for this site will be within the available lease area and that the rental paid remains the same. The decision complies with both the Local Government and Crown Land acts.
"While the lease negotiations will start as quickly as possible, they will take some time as building works and other requirements, will all form part of the negotiations and formal Agreement to Lease."