Barwon Heads will get a new arts and community hub, with a concept
design for the site of a former kindergarten outlining the refurbishment of the existing building and the construction of a new arts building and outdoor space.
Councillors have given their in-principle support for
development to begin at 5 Clifford Parade and to enter into a funding agreement
with the state government. The
state committed $1 million towards a hub at the site, which is owned by the
City, before the 2018 state election.
Several
locations were assessed, however the old kindergarten site was found to be the
most suitable for an arts and community hub. An existing community facility is
also immediately adjacent to the new arts facility.
Barwon Heads
has a strong and passionate arts community. This hub will encourage further
creative expression and enable more social connection between community
members.
The proposal is to include a flexible studio and program spaces, while a
carpark for 20 cars, a maker space, a casual studio space, an outdoor studio
and an outdoor social area will be built, subject to further detailed
design.
The endorsed
concept design provides the largest achievable floor area and best
functionality for an arts hub, while minimising any impact to existing senior
citizens activities.
Support for the
approved layout has been received from the Barwon Heads Arts and Community Hub
Project Working Group and Project Reference Group (including stakeholders from
the Barwon Heads Arts Council, Barwon Heads Association and Barwon Heads Senior
Citizens). The community will be given the opportunity to have its say as part
of the next stage of development.
Prior to the
development proceeding, a planning permit will be required that involves a
process of community consultation. Council has also referred the project to
future budget processes for consideration.
Councillor Stephanie Asher – Mayor
The approved
concept design is a wonderful step towards establishing a much-needed Barwon
Heads arts and community hub.Over the years,
we’ve received feedback from the community supporting the development of this
type of facility and I look forward to hearing from locals again as we work out
the finer details.
Councillor Trent Sullivan – Chair, Arts, Culture and Heritage portfolio
The Bellarine Peninsula has a vibrant arts community, which is
proud to have a point of difference by being by the coast. This hub is a
fantastic opportunity to support the arts industry which has been significantly
impacted by the coronavirus pandemic.I’m impressed with the concept design for this arts and community
hub, which is exactly what the community wanted and will no doubt spark
creativity amongst future users and see new friendships develop.
