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.
