The ACT Government is progressing plans to remove the fire-damaged building at 91A Wakefield Gardens, addressing ongoing public safety risks and allowing the site to be safely remediated.
A Development Application has been submitted for the staged demolition of the vacant building, which was severely damaged by fire last year.
The site has been fenced off and signage has been erected to keep the community safe until the demolition of the building can begin.
Demolition of the structure is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, pending DA approval.
More than 380 people provided feedback on the future use of 91A Wakefield Gardens during a six-week consultation period last year, through an online survey, six pop-up sessions and meetings with key stakeholders.
Key community feedback included:
- Preserving the history and heritage character of the site and gardens
- Creating an inclusive and affordable community space and/or multi-use facility
- Improving green space and sustainability, and
- Ensuring accessibility for all ages and abilities.
Other suggestions related to having better play facilities in the area, and a desire for recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and First Nations leadership in planning for the future use of the site.
The Government is reviewing all feedback to identify feasible options for the site's future use, balancing community priorities with heritage requirements and site constraints, and is committed to returning the site to community use.
It is important to recognise that the site presents both challenges and opportunities, including heritage-listed gardens, mature trees and a limited footprint, which will shape what can realistically be achieved.
While the damaged structure itself is not heritage listed, Wakefield Gardens precinct is heritage listed, and demolition and remediation works will be undertaken with care to protect the site's heritage values.
The community can view the DA submission and lodge comment until 20May via the Planning Authority's here: Browse DAs - City and Environment Directorate - Planning.
The ACT Government thanks the community for its ongoing interest and engagement and will continue to provide updates as the project progresses.
Quotes attributable to Minister for the Public Service, Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA
"Demolishing the existing building on 91A Wakefield Gardens will pave the way to create a space that the Ainslie community can be proud of.
"We have listened to the community and are taking this feedback on board.
"While there are limitations with the site we remain committed to ensuring it is returned as an asset for the local community."
