The Robinvale community is being advised that the Robinvale Hotel building will be demolished following an independent structural assessment that found the fire-damaged building to be unsafe.
Earlier in the year, Council commissioned an independent Structural Engineering report to assess the condition of the fire-damaged building. The report determined that the building is unsafe.
Due to the building’s proximity to the street and the potential risk to public safety, Council has progressed the matter through an extensive process over the past six months, including issuing a building notice and subsequent building order to the building’s owner.
As the timeframe allowed to the owner to act in accordance with the building order has now ended, Council will exercise its power under Section 121 of the Building Act to undertake the works required in accordance with the building order.
Mayor Cr Stuart King said Council recognised the significance of the building to the Robinvale community.
“We understand the connection people have with Robinvale Hotel.
“However, Council’s first responsibility must be the safety of our community. The independent structural assessment has found the building to be unsafe, and Council must act in accordance with the building order.
“We know this is not the outcome some people would have wanted, but the safety risk means Council cannot allow the situation to continue.”
“Council has not made this decision lightly,” Cr King said.
Chief Executive Officer Scott Barber said Council had undertaken a thorough process to address the safety concerns and had allowed the required period for the building’s owner to respond.
“Over several years, Council has worked through the appropriate processes to address the condition of the building and the risk it poses to the public.
“With the notice period now expired, Council is required to take the necessary action to ensure the building site is made safe.
“We would also like to take this opportunity to remind residents, due to safety concerns, that there is strictly no public access to the site,” Mr Barber said.
The structural integrity of the bottle shop adjoining the hotel will be assessed once the main building has been demolished.
Council will undertake appropriate cost recovery from the landowner for the works.
Council will provide further information to the community as the demolition arrangements progress.