Design works endorsed for integrated civic precinct in Warragul

Design works endorsed for integrated civic precinct in Warragul

Published on 26 July 2019

Baw Baw Shire Council will soon commence the master planning process for a major development to create an integrated community precinct in the heart of Warragul.

The project, known as the Warragul Civic Precinct, aspires to build on existing spaces and infrastructure in the areas surrounding the West Gippsland Arts Centre and Warragul Civic Park by integrating new civic and community spaces, improving open spaces and maximising opportunities for community connectedness.

The decision to commence the master planning process – including allocation of $80,000 from the Forward Design Program as part of the current financial year Capital Works Program – was made by Council at the July 24 Council Meeting, with the motion moved by Deputy Mayor Cr Danny Goss and seconded by Cr Joe Gauci.

The scope for the proposed precinct includes, but is not limited to:

A municipal library space; Arts gallery and additional theatre spaces; Public toilets and amenity; Multi-purpose and community meeting space/s; Council customer and visitor service and front of house; Council chambers, committee rooms and public gallery; Council staff office accommodation space; Improvements to the surrounding area and integration between the proposed Civic Precinct and the existing Civic Park; Entry plaza to the Civic Precinct and Civic Park (including the area of the recently demolished house); and Additional car parking including options for increased walking and bicycle use.

A sound master plan will ensure a clear road map to guide planning, design and delivery of the staged development over the next 10 years and to budget for future detail design within Council’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan.

Throughout the master planning process, consideration will be given to key themes identified through community consultation for the Community Hubs Strategy, with the following aspirations for the Warragul township in particular:

Youth orientated and child friendly and accessible programs; A place for social connectedness, opportunities and activities; Space that allows the community to work together; Informal and formal meeting spaces; and A focus on multi-purpose space where community and user groups can co-exist.

Council is committed to engaging with the community throughout development of the master plan to ensure the community’s vision and expectation are captured.

More information about the project and community consultation opportunities will be provided as the project progresses.

Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Mikaela Power

“We’re looking forward to starting the master planning process for what will be a dynamic and vibrant civic and community precinct. This is a long-term project with the community at the forefront of the plan. While we don’t know exactly how it will look and function just yet, this master planning process will provide us with clarity and direction to shape the building for our community. We’re very excited to move another step closer to seeing this intergenerational precinct come to life.”

Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor Cr Danny Goss

“Currently, some of the buildings in the precinct are in poor condition with no plan to improve or better utilise these spaces. We want to build on the success of the Arts Centre redevelopment and ensure this strategic location right in the middle of town does not go underutilised – but is brought to its full potential.”

“This is the first step in what will be a huge project that will make an enormous difference to the future of Warragul for generations to come. As a Council, when we were elected, we made a commitment to investing in and creating master plans for major projects to keep focus on the big picture – far beyond the four-year Council term. This will ensure the best possible outcome for the whole community not only today but in the long-term. Bring it on I say!”

Quotes attributable to Cr Joe Gauci

“Since the redevelopment of the Arts Centre and Civic Park playground, the area has been utilised more than ever by the community. Through this master planning process, we aim to take it to the next level and work towards delivering an integrated precinct with even more beautiful spaces and useful facilities that will service our community for generations to come.”

“As plans progress there will be many opportunities for the community to actively participate in the development and decision making for the project – so watch this space.”