Mayor enthusiastic over waterfront proposal

Two prominent Albany businessmen plan to build a tavern and restaurant on the foreshore next to the Albany Entertainment Centre.

Trevor Cosh and Paul Lionetti have formed a business partnership to buy and develop “lot 6” of LandCorp’s Waterfront project.

The cost has not been disclosed, but LandCorp’s asking price for the prime 1856sqm block overlooking Princess Royal Harbour and the marina was $880,000.

Mr Cosh said plans for the development were being negotiated and both he and Mr Lionetti preferred to award any tenders to local businesses.

“We want this to be an iconic Albany development,” he said.

“I guess we want it to be a bit like the Esplanade in the old days.

“But it will have a strong family theme and definitely won’t be a boozer.”

The size and style of the tavern and restaurant is still being decided but Mr Cosh said the business would have a “strong ocean theme” and showcase the region’s products with an emphasis on seafood and local wines.

The two men are considering a range of entertainment options to be offered by the business.

“We want to fill the gap for family entertainment, but we want to have something for all the demographics,” Mr Cosh said.

Mr Cosh, who also owns and operates the Dome coffee shop on Albany Highway, was unsure how many staff would be employed but said his current business had 27 workers and, using that as a comparison, expected the new venture would employ more than 20.

The anticipated date for opening the tavern and restaurant is towards the end of 2013 or early in 2014.

“We’ll be working hard to get it up and running as soon as possible,” Mr Cosh said.

Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington was enthusiastic about the venture.

“A restaurant and tavern development on the foreshore to complement our magnificent entertainment centre should create a fantastic addition to Albany’s social infrastructure,” he said.

“We have one of the best harbours in the world and I think something that adds to that experience will be great.” Mr Wellington said Albany City Council had not yet seen any concept plans but was looking forward to receiving them.

Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO Graham Harvey said the venture was “a great news story for Albany” and congratulated Mr Cosh and Mr Lionetti on their initiative and the boost it would give to the city’s hospitality industry.

“Having a quiet ale or glass of wine with a meal with family and friends while looking out over Albany’s magnificent Princess Royal Harbour and waterfront marina will appeal to many, both locals and visitors alike,” he said.