Powerhouse precinct redevelopment concept designs revealed

Published on 19 January 2021

Concept designs for the new Powerhouse precinct redevelopment can now be viewed by the community, reflecting the feedback of more than 500 people who shared their ideas and thoughts late last year.

Council in November asked residents what they'd like to see included in the Powerhouse precinct redevelopment, as well as whether they agreed with some of the ideas being considered, triggering a strong response from the community.

There were also meetings with a range of different community and stakeholder groups to ensure a thorough understanding of the site and how it could be used.

After collating all of this feedback the following broad priorities emerged:

The feedback also shaped the concept designs which can now be viewed at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/HaveYourSay

Mildura Mayor Jason Modica said it was vitally important to continue working closely with the community throughout the project, inviting residents to provide their feedback on the new concept designs.

"Firstly, a big thank you must go out to those who took the time and effort to think about what they'd like the Powerhouse precinct to look like, and then providing us with this feedback," Cr Modica said.

"At the end of the day, this precinct is for our community, whether it be enjoying it throughout the year, or the further economic benefits the riverfront precinct will generate for our community through the visitor numbers it attracts."

The Mayor said feedback on the concept designs is about ensuring the big ideas for the site are in line with what the community would like to see.

"These concept designs provide us with a broad idea of how the site may look. It's about making the most of the site and aligning it with the community's priorities, looking at major components, areas and uses," Cr Modica said.

"Once we have these finalised, the minor details, such as finishes, materials and other important aspects, can be refined later.

"We need to get the foundations right, which is why we're again asking for the community's help by providing feedback on these concept designs."

Residents can provide their feedback by visiting Council's Have Your Say page at www.mildura.vic.gov.au/HaveYourSay and clicking on the 'Powerhouse precinct concept designs'. The page features the concept designs, as well as a quick and easy online survey for residents to provide their feedback.

Feedback can be provided until Friday 29 January. This information will then be used to refine the design of the precinct before construction starts mid-year.

Cr Modica said the Powerhouse precinct was at the heart of the second stage of the riverfront redevelopment.

"We've already seen what can happen by capitalising on our region's most valuable natural asset - the Murray River - through the first stage of the riverfront redevelopment, which has attracted more than three million people since it was established," he said 

"The second stage of this redevelopment, based around the Powerhouse precinct, will be equally transformative and complete our city's connection to the riverfront and the raft of benefits it will bring our community." 

Early work has already started on some components of the Powerhouse precinct, including a new footpath near the Jaycee Park car park, which will link the car park area to the Powerhouse. This will provide safe access for pedestrians, prams and wheelchairs.

Council is also in ongoing discussions with existing users in the immediate area, including the operators of Shippy’s Café de Caravan, which is likely to transition into the vibrant precinct redevelopment.

The Powerhouse precinct redevelopment is jointly funded through the Victorian Government's Crisis Committee of Cabinet Infrastructure Stimulus Fund ($5 million), the Victorian Government's Regional Infrastructure Fund ($500,000) and Council ($500,000).

ENDS