The highly anticipated transformation of the Benalla Visitor Information Centre on Mair Street has entered its final stages.
Benalla Rural City Mayor Bernie Hearn has announced that Council is planning an official opening of the new building in mid-September, however some services are planned to be open to the public by the end of August.
'We are planning a soft launch of the new Mair Street building in late August, starting with the Visitor services team moving in first,' Cr Hearn said.
The extensive upgrades to this important community venue are nearing completion. Once completed the redevelopment will be an integral part of the community, providing essential regional information to thousands of visitors and residents each year.'
'The community will have noticed we currently have significant works taking place on Mair Street,' Cr Hearn said.
'The installation of new drainage, footpath and parking areas along the west side of Mair Street, from the corner of Bridge Street East to the Aquatic Centre, will ensure improved parking, drainage, accessibility and safety for pedestrians.'
The project will also deliver toilets and change facilities for the Splash Park. Something the community have been asking for since the Splash Park opened. Another exciting development is the construction of an accessible path from Mair Street to the Splash Park and Benalla Lake Trail.
'The project has achieved significant milestones, and we are pleased to announce that it is on track to reach the lock-up stage shortly,' Cr Hearn said.
The relocation of Visitor Services to the new facility are currently planned for mid-August.
Please note that the existing Visitor Centre at the Commercial Hotel on Bridge Street Benalla will close during the transition period.
Additionally, the new Benalla Cinema, a much-anticipated addition to the project, is set to begin its operations shortly after the Visitor Services have settled into the building.
'The exact date of the cinema's opening will be communicated soon, delivering a centrally located cinema for locals and visitors alike to enjoy.'
