Suspicious fire at proposed Macca's

A house fire on Settlement Road - at the site of the proposed McDonald's - is being investigated.

Four CFA trucks were called to the fire in the vacant, dilapidated dwelling at 194 Settlement Road Cowes at 8.06am Sunday.

A CFA spokesperson said the incident was brought under control at 8.20am and declared safe at 8.38am, with the building still standing.

"Police were called to the scene for suspicious circumstances," the CFA spokesperson said.

Bass Coast Crime Investigation Unit detectives are investigating the fire.

"Investigations are ongoing into the cause of the fire, which is believed to be suspicious at this stage," a police spokesperson said.

No one was inside at the time of the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, with vision in the area or has further information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au

McDonald's lodged a planning permit for their proposed Cowes restaurant last month, with the development set to stretch an entire block from Thompson Avenue to Watchorn Rd, diagonally opposite Cowes Primary.

The permit is not yet formally advertised publicly for community feedback.