Construction has started on the new Port Phillip EcoCentre in St Kilda Botanic Gardens, with the centre set to become a leading example of environmentally sustainable design.
Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt today visited the site of the new centre to mark the start of construction alongside City of Port Phillip Councillors and the local community.
The $6.7 million project will see scientists, educators and volunteers together under one roof – allowing more school students and locals to benefit from short courses, community gardening and the opportunity to give new life to old objects with a new repair café.
The new build will increase the EcoCentre’s ability to deliver sustainability programs and expand on local council’s existing services to the community.
Designed to operate with net zero energy and water usage, the EcoCentre will join an exclusive club of only 500 buildings worldwide that produces more clean energy than it consumes, offsetting all carbon used during construction.
Whilst construction of the new facility is taking place, the EcoCentre will continue its important work at the Cora Graves Community Centre in St Kilda until the new EcoCentre is up and running by late 2024.
The Andrews Labor Government invested $3.35 million towards this project which was matched by City of Port Phillip.
For more information on the new EcoCentre, visit portphillip.vic.gov.au/about-the-council/projects-and-works/ecocentre-redevelopment.
As stated by Minister for Environment Ingrid Stitt
“We’re proud to be delivering the new purpose-built carbon neutral EcoCentre that will be a hub for important biodiversity and sustainability research.”
As stated by Member for Albert Park Nina Taylor
“The Port Phillip EcoCentre is such a treasured asset for the local community providing valued education programs for local students to enjoy.”
As stated by City of Port Phillip Mayor Heather Cunsolo
“We are excited for the EcoCentre to continue its great work in transforming our community’s understanding of the local environment, including biodiversity, waterways and the impacts of climate change.”
