By Matthew Sims
A new look for the Footscray Town Hall is set to take shape, as Maribyrnong council and commercial construction company Ireland Brown Constructions prepare for works on the new Civic Precinct and Community Hub.
Redevelopment works are scheduled to begin later this month and will include the refurbishment and conservation of the 80-year-old heritage listed Town Hall building, along with the demolition of the two existing office buildings and construction of a new, modern six-star Green Star administration building, a 200-seat facility and a new community park.
Endorsed by Maribyrnong council in June 2022, the precinct designs includes a second entrance off Napier Street into the Town Hall and the use of environmentally friendly materials and sustainable design elements to support Green Star accreditation.
Maribyrnong mayor Sarah Carter said it is exciting to see the project set to begin following a number of years of planning.
“The Footscray Town Hall has been a part of the civic fabric of Maribyrnong for more than 80 years,” she said.
“It is great to see the fencing going up signalling the start of the physical on the ground works that will ensure the longevity of this treasured historic building for our community.
“There are two years of renovations and works ahead, but once completed, the Civic Precinct and Community Hub will provide a modern, environmentally friendly space that not only pays homage to the rich history of the site and wider city, but also a space residents will be able to enjoy for years to come.”
Designs are being finalised for the community park, which will include shade, seating, a focus on soft surfaces and reflection of the cultural and Indigenous history in the outdoor area.
The forum space will include a new entry off Hyde Street connecting to the community meeting spaces and the new community park.
Council staff are available at the Central West Shopping Centre in Braybrook for the duration of the works, where officers will be available to meet by appointment only, while a new Customer Service Centre is now stationed at Footscray Library from 8.30am to 5pm.
Council meetings will be held at the Braybrook Community Hub.
Works are expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2024.
Details: www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/townhall
