A redeveloped Woodend Community Centre is a step closer thanks to a joint funding announcement by the Minister for Regional Development, Mary-Anne Thomas and Macedon Ranges Shire Council, with $325,000 to be allocated to fast track detailed design works.
Minister Thomas announced $260,000 from the Victorian Government's Investment Fast Track Fund and Macedon Ranges Shire Council will be contributing $65,000 towards the design stage of the planned redevelopment.
Macedon Ranges Shire Council Mayor, Cr Jennifer Anderson said the Woodend Community Centre redevelopment was a key recommendation from the Woodend Community Centre Master Plan and she welcomed the early injection of funds from the Victorian Government.
"The funding announcement is wonderful news as the Woodend Community Centre project is one of Council's key priorities announced in the recently released Macedon Ranges Priority Projects 2022 prospectus."
"The master plan for the redevelopment completed last year outlines the amazing potential for the transformation of the existing Woodend Community Centre into a modern, flexible and sustainably designed facility."
"This is a very exciting project that has the support of the community, meets the identified needs of multiple users and will provide significant economic development and tourism opportunities not only for Woodend but as a gateway to the rest of the shire."
"The reimagined civic space will replace the existing building and proposes a new library, multipurpose indoor performance space, community and visitor information hub, multi-purpose foyer and gallery space, cafe and produce kiosk, and a village green/ outdoor events space."
"With the funding announced by the Victorian Government and Council, we are now able to bring forward the design stage. The highly engaged local community has worked with Council throughout the development of the master plan and will continue to have the opportunity to do so during this design phase," she said.
Minister Thomas said she looked forward to seeing the design process get underway with the revamped centre set to improve social, educational and employment prospects in Woodend. "We're fast tracking the design of the Woodend Community Centre because we know how important this project is to the local community," she said.
