Historic Rose Cottage estate near Canberra set to become one-stop supercentre
A new development plan may lead to the most dramatic change in the estate’s 190-year history.
Historic Rose Cottage estate has had many transformations over the years but a new development plan may lead to the most dramatic change in its 190-year history.
The site is for sale and set for a multi-million-dollar redevelopment aimed at turning the estate into a one-stop supercentre for tourists travelling to the snow.
A development application has been submitted for the three-hectare block with a three-parcel subdivision proposal that paves the way for the inclusion of a service station, hotel, fast-food outlets and camping grounds.
An aerial image showing the proposed subdivision. Photo: Supplied
Interest has already been shown from McDonald’s, United Petroleum, BWS and F1 Motels in taking up space on the historic site.
Rose Cottage estate was originally part of the 1827 Tuggeranong Station grant. Two remaining cottages are occupied by a cafe and Mary’s bar. An additional glass room is used for events while landscaped surrounds operate as a beer garden and outdoor function area.
Selling agent Christine Bassingthwaighte, of Luton Tuggeranong, says the DA intends to draw new patronage to the site while maintaining the heritage significance of the estate.
“The operation of the Rose Cottage facilities will continue as part of its heritage listing but the opportunity for the buyer is to develop a service centre on the site,” she says.
The DA is in advanced stages and Bassingthwaighte says there has been buyer interest from developers.
“It’s such a rare opportunity to have this size parcel of land offered for sale,” she says. “We would love a local developer to purchase it but we are also expecting outside interest.
“It has been listed as expressions of interest as we want to see what the market is offering but it’s safe to say that due to the size of land it will attract $1 million-plus.”
Capital Crown Leasing director Deborah Barnes says a subdivision would maintain the connection between the heritage buildings.
“Any construction would take into consideration the rural nature that we want to preserve in that area,” she says. “Developments would be separated as far away as possible from Rose Cottage buildings.”
New facilities would benefit residents and visitors to the region, Barnes says.
“It would bring services to passing snow traffic and to the people living in Tuggeranong and beyond,” she says. “The area is the gateway to the snow and the rest of the region.
“It also ensures the longevity of the historic site overall.”
The vendor is Satin Bowerbird Pty Ltd, which is owned by the Piagno family.
Rose Cottage, Isabella Drive, Gilmore, is for sale through expressions of interest which close on June 14.
