Only one stage has been completed on the redevelopment works at the Old Kyneton Primary School site.
After the March Macedon Ranges council meeting, councillors resolved to write to Creative Victoria to gain an update on the status of the works at the site.
In 2021, the state government committed $12 million for the redevelopment of the site, to turn it into mixed-use creative and community precinct.
Stage one of the works meant set to be completed in March 2024.
Council acting chief executive Rebecca Stockfeld wrote to Creative Victoria in April as councillors were concerned with the lengthy delay and lack of public information provided.
Council sought a confirmation of completed works, a timeline for opening completed areas, schedule and plans for outstanding works, and identification of the managing organisation.
Council received a response from Creative Victoria chief executive Claire Febey in June, with an excerpt published on council’s website.
In the letter, Ms Febey said phase one construction of the new gallery and events space is complete, and an operational model and approach to completing the phase two works is being finalised on the 1980s building.
“Given the site’s historic nature and the significant deterioration of the buildings, the works were complex,” she said.
So far, the $12 million has delivered the transformation of the bluestone building into a multi-purpose gallery and events space; the old library space has been made suitable for a range of community and creative uses; a new central entrance building to welcome visitors and connect the site’s buildings; landscaping across the site, including planting over 3000 new plants; and minor works to make the rest of the 1980s buildings more stable and secure.
“Creative Victoria is working to finalise the arrangements for operation and opening of these spaces. This has included meeting with several stakeholders, including council staff, Working Heritage, Regional Arts Victoria and several interested community members,” Ms Febey said.
“Details regarding opening of the bluestone building and surrounding outdoor areas, as well as phase two next steps will be shared with council and the community as soon as possible.”
Council said after receiving the letter, it met with Creative Victoria representatives and received further confidential updates about the site.
