Construction preparation for a new kindergarten and maternal and child health centre in Lancefield has begun this month, following planning permit approval.
The project is located at 76A High Street and is set to be a modern three-room facility, complemented by accessible and secure entries as well as a dedicated rear playground area.
Early works will include the installation of temporary fencing, site clearing and levelling works, and installing building footings and stumps.
This will then pave the way for installation of the modular buildings transported to site, building fit-outs, landscaping and all other required works.
Macedon Ranges council director community Maria Weiss said the priority project for council is expected to be operational by the middle of the year.
“This project will provide many benefits for the community including increased kinder places for local children, local maternal and child health services, and space for community-based and supported playgroups,” she said.
“We’re grateful to many groups for collaborating with us to make this a reality including the Lancefield Park Recreation Reserve’s committee of management, the neighbouring Men’s Shed and the Lancefield Playgroup committee.
“We look forward to seeing the project take shape and will continue to work closely with these key stakeholders and others… to enable a smooth build and transition once the new centre opens.”
Key features of the current site will be protected and retained, including heritage gate pillars at the entrance and the mature trees bordering the west and south of the site.
The off-site construction of the modular buildings means a more efficient and less disruptive build.
The project has received $3 million in funding through the state government’s Building Blocks Capacity Building Grants stream and will be delivered by the Victorian School Building Authority.
Council has allocated a further $144,000 to ensure the new centre is fully furnished and has improved environmental and sustainable design elements.
Details: mrsc.vic.gov.au/lancefieldkinder or www.schoolbuildings.vic.gov.au/lancefield-kindergarten
