Work has begun on the $1.6 million rooftop upgrade at the Coogee Legion Club, located on the Arden Street beachfront, following the approval of the development application lodged in October 2020.
The improvements will include a better terrace on the three-storey building, as well as the redevelopment of the rooftop bar and function space. When finished, the improved site will be able to accommodate at least 150 guests during events when restrictions are completely lifted.
The changes are expected to boost Coogee Legion Club‘s profile. The longstanding club is already in a premier location, with a gorgeous and uninterrupted view of the beach. The club has been pushing to increase its membership by opening the club’s facilities, such as the gaming room and the bar, to a wider market.
Members may still visit the site during construction to check on the progress.
Coogee Legion Club’s building is not a heritage-listed site though it was established in 1945 after World War II for the fellowship of ex-servicemen and women.
The project developer, however, recognises that the building stands near multiple heritage items around Coogee, such as the Coogee Beach sandstone retaining wells, the James Robertson fountain and the Coogee Bay Hotel.
“The proposed modifications to the approved plans under DA/104/2020/A are considered not to be detrimental to the local heritage significance as the works are largely internal and contained within the existing roofline,” the developers stated. “Due to the alignment of the building to Coogee Bay Road, and the proposed location of the development, there is minimal impact on the setting and heritage significance of the Coogee Bay Hotel.”
Meanwhile, the second and ground floors of the building are leased to various eateries and businesses.
