Benjamin Millar
Maribyrnong Council is keen to hear your Town Hall stories.
The upgrade of the Footscray Town Hall and surrounds, as part of the development of a new Civic and Community Precinct, is not the first time the municipality’s civic headquarters has undergone a major renovation.
Councillors first debated the future of the original Town Hall and Courthouse in 1908 after it began to show serious signs of wear and tear.
A new building followed in 1936, which the current Council has agreed to return to the community with an extended outdoor area also created for community use.
Mayor Michael Clarke said when the council first began planning the new precinct, it asked the community how a redeveloped Town Hall and new community park might be enjoyed going forward.
“You told us you envisage a place where locals and visitors alike can gather, relax and enjoy basic food and beverages and get to know each other,” he said.
You want to see an inviting space that can be used in different ways by community organisations and social groups for training, large talks and celebrations.
“But you also want us to retain the beauty and character of the existing building while incorporating modern green initiatives such as solar lighting, recycled materials and electric car charging.”
As part of Council’s commitment to celebrating the heritage of this iconic building, Mayor Clarke is also now calling on members of the community to share their memories of time spent at the Town Hall.
“As we look to a new chapter for this iconic building, please dig into your personal archives to share photos and stories that speak not just to Footscray’s past, but of your memories of this heritage building – whether attending a ball, receiving citizenship, or attending some other special event or meeting there,” he said.
Stories, photos and clippings can be shared via Your City Your Voice and will be used to create a memory book.
“Please take this opportunity to support a living tribute to the past and legacy for future generations,” Mayor Clarke said.
The council has secured a $10 million low interest loan from the state government to support the redevelopment, which is currently in the detailed design phase.
These designs will be shared with the community for feedback in the coming months.
