By Molly Magennis
Hobsons Bay council is asking for community feedback on the proposed sale of the former Hobsons Bay Kindergarten site.
The sale of the property located on 122 Woods Street in Newport was originally agreed by council in 2010, with the Hobsons Bay Kindergarten and Toy Library relocating to the Newport Gardens Early Years Centre in 2014.
The site could not be sold however due to a restrictive covenant registered on two of the lots.
This covenant has now been removed through a planning scheme amendment.
Hobsons Bay mayor Peter Hemphill said any money gained from the sale of the three lots would be put back into the community.
“We seek feedback from the community on the proposal to sell an underutilised facility and put money back into the community,” he said.
“Half of the money from the sale would be invested in the Western Aquatics facility construction reserve, a quarter into the Hobsons Bay Wetlands Centre construction reserve, and a quarter for the Hobsons Bay Property Development Fund reserve.”
Before proposing the sale, an analysis was undertaken to ensure there were enough kindergarten services in the area, Cr Hemphill said.
“The Newport Gardens Early Years Centre is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility which meets the needs of young families in Newport,” he said.
“In addition, a private childcare service offering integrated kindergarten services is currently under construction on the corner of Maddox and Woods Street.”
Community feedback will close on Sunday May 29, with all submissions received during this consultation to be presented at a future council meeting this year, prior to a decision being made.
To provide feedback visit participate.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/122woods.
