A significant step has been taken towards the redevelopment of the Eastwood Leisure Complex.
The City of Ballarat is now searching for a building contractor to construct the transformational facility, with an Expression of Interest (EOI) document now open for submission.
Following the initial EOI process, the City of Ballarat will prepare a short list of potential builders and expects to formally tender for construction in late 2025.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 and is expected to be completed by March 2027.
The Eastwood Leisure Complex Redevelopment project will deliver a new multi-purpose community hub on the existing Eastwood Leisure Complex site, replacing the current outdated facilities.
The project is being constructed in partnership between the City of Ballarat and the Federal Government's Growing Regions Program
External designs of the facility were released in January 2025 with complete designs now being finalised.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said it was exciting to see significant progress being made on the project.
"This is a project that benefits so many people and we know that the community is so eager to see it come to life," she said.
"Eastwood is one of Ballarat's most frequently used community facilities, but it has reached the end of its useful life and its facilities are outdated and are no longer fit for purpose.
"This project will deliver something spectacular that will last for many generations to come."
Federal Member for Ballarat, Catherine King said it was exciting to see progress in relation to the Eastwood Leisure Complex.
"Eastwood Leisure Complex is home to so many different groups, and is a true community asset," she said.
"Finding the right builder to upgrade the facility and prepare it for the future is the next exciting step in Eastwood's transformation."
The project will see existing Eastwood buildings - other than the basketball stadium - demolished and replaced with a contemporary, accessible facility featuring flexible meeting spaces, a medium sized conference and community events space, several meeting rooms, three multipurpose activity rooms and associated kitchen facilities.
The facility was first built in the 1940s, has since undergone several upgrades and expansions, and has been used for different community purposes.
To learn more about the upgrade, visit the Eastwood Leisure Complex Redevelopment project page.
