A proposed hotel on Mollison Street hopes to become the cultural epicentre of central Victoria as it bids to expand to 200 rooms.
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Spring Developments has submitted an amended planning application to council, which includes an additional 52 rooms.
Spring Developments' Peter and Rachel Irons outlined their renewed vision for the 10,000-square metre property, following the acquisition of additional land near the Mollison Street site.
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"Bendigo is a wonderful regional city, with its burgeoning art, food and wine culture," Ms Irons said.
"There is a growing appreciation for what regional Victoria has to offer and the major hotel chains have largely ignored the regions."
The COVID-19 pandemic has done little to dissuade investment in and development of the upscale hotel, the pair said.
"We think the pandemic will increase activity in regional areas."
The original proposal, submitted in May, outlined plans for a 148-room establishment, worth $48 million.
The purchase of additional land has extended the street frontage of the development to more than 350 metres.
An expanded hotel, built over two stages, will cater for larger conference and events spaces, with capacity for 300 guests.
"We think with the pandemic, people will be less likely to travel overseas for conferences and as a regional city, Bendigo is well suited to host people from interstate," Ms Irons said.
"The conference space is divisible and features an outdoor terrace, two separate rooms and a private room."
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The updated proposal includes an expanded central courtyard and public space with a surrounding wine bar, cafe and restaurant.
About 25 per cent of the site is allocated to green and landscaped space, the application said.
A wine bar with outdoor courtyard space is a cornerstone of the planned works, as is offering a unique dining experience, following Bendigo's designation as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
"We want to connect to the region and showcase the best of the local produce that's on offer," Mr Irons said.
"We are hoping locals will embrace the all-day dining and courtyard for casual dining and special occasions."
Existing shops at the site, 113-133 Mollison Street, would need to be demolished to make way for the hotel, if the proposal was successful.
A pizza store, an Indian restaurant, and a liquor store would be among the affected retailers.
The amended application has been submitted to council, with public advertising and community consultation to follow.
