Works on the new kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health Centre in Lancefield have been delayed due to the discovery of a cultural artefact.
Macedon Ranges council announced the delay on April 24, and said the artefact was found during site preparation works.
According to protocols around such unexpected discoveries, works on the site were immediately paused and project managers the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) consulted with the relevant Traditional Owner Corporation.
The corporation has engaged a heritage consultant and is preparing a cultural heritage management plan to enable the works to progress.
Council’s director community Maria Weiss said the delay to the opening of the facility was disappointing given the community need for increased local services.
“This means that the new kinder and Maternal and Child Health Centre will not open as scheduled,” she said.
“We will continue to work closely with the VSBA and update families – and the broader public – as the project progresses, including when we have a firmer idea of revised timelines.”
Council said the project, which is located next to Lancefield Primary School, will feature a modern three-room facility which is largely built offsite through modular construction.
VSBA: 1800 896 950 or vsba@education.vic.gov.au
