Project Summary

Bass Coast Shire Council’s Infrastructure Delivery department will shortly commence works on the Cowes Foreshore Toilet Waterproofing Project. The scheduling of this project was deliberate to both allow the works to be completed during the best weather while balancing community need for the toilet to be open during the peak summer season (late December 2024 to January 2025). This work could not be completed during the winter months due to frequent rainfall and the resulting damp conditions.

The project is scheduled for completion by mid-December.

About the Project:

  • This project seeks to rectify water ingress issues threatening the structural integrity, usability and safe access of the area's premier tourist location. Moderate to severe rain events have prevented the public's safe access and use of the facilities, resulting in temporary closure, often around key events time such as the Moto GP.
  • During peak summer and holiday periods the Cowes foreshore, Thompson Avenue toilets, are visited by thousands of tourists every day. This project will contribute to positive experiences of our tourists and visitors. The reliability of the building and facilities is key in event success and visitor satisfaction.
  • In its current state, the toilet facility has had to be closed on occasions due to the ingress of water into the ground floor level. The damp conditions are causing potential long term structural issues with the building and issues with wall/ceiling paint and floor finishes.


Please note that the toilets will be closed for the duration of the construction. The nearest public toilet facilities are located at the Erewhon Point Reserve toilet block. There will also be a large capacity temporary toilet block in place near the foreshore toilet for the duration of the project.

Thank you for your patience during the construction period. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions prior to or during the project.

  • This project seeks to rectify water ingress from the roof of the building. The scope of this project is to waterproof the roof of the toilet facility located at Thompson Avenue.
  • Waterproofing to the roof surface will be required to achieve the required outcome. The existing pavers and furniture will need to be removed from the roof, installation of a waterproof membrane and pavers and furniture will be re-installed.
  • The roof serves as a seating and viewing area which is tiled. The toilet facility below is suffering water ingress, causing internal damage which may lead to more significant structural damage left untreated.
  • Removal, storage and reinstallation of viewing platform stainless steel balustrade.
  • Removal of tiles on viewing platform.
  • Sealing and patching of all water ingress points including any anchor points
  • Installation and rectification of drainage issues.
  • Remove and dispose of perimeter garden beds
  • Waterproof membrane installation
  • Reinstallation of all tiles and reinstatement of viewing area.

This project is funded by Bass Coast Shire Council to the value of $380,000.

  • Stair access on both sides of the building from The Esplanade to the Foreshore will be closed for most of the duration of the project.
  • The grassed area between the viewing deck and The Esplanade will be fenced off and utilised by Contracotrs for site amenitied, storage and general construction requirements.
  • The project will have minimal impact on community movement through Thompson Avenue and The Esplanade. This will not impact access to the foreshore and surrounding beaches.
  • Appropriate traffic control measures will be in place throughout the duration of the works, including reduced speed limits.
  • Local resident and emergency access will be maintained throughout the construction works.

Map of Works

Progress Photos