INITIAL concept plans for the $5.3 million Ararat arts precinct will be unveiled at a special public information session in Ararat next week.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Award-winning architectural firm Williams Boag will introduce its design process at the session on Wednesday, February 17 from 7pm.
Ararat Rural City Mayor Paul Hooper said Williams Boag Architects had been handed a clear brief to design a new cultural precinct that respected the site’s strong heritage.
“The town hall is very much a part of our psyche – it has been a western Victorian landmark since 1898,” Cr Hooper said.
“But the last major upgrade was more than 40 years ago and the gallery and performing arts spaces have outgrown their home.
“When this project is complete, it will transform the heart of Ararat into a vibrant community space and really put us on the map in terms of cultural activities.”
Cr Hooper said, when complete, the redeveloped arts precinct would include improved gallery and performing arts spaces as well as a public café and bar.
“Our intention is that the new designs will take account of the site’s history, but will also cater for the changing ways that our communities use these sorts of spaces,” he said.
“Importantly, major ‘behind the scenes’ improvements will meet the aspirations of community members who are actively involved in presenting events and performances.
“This will be a wonderful community asset that I have no doubt will play an important role in attracting visitors to our region.”
The $5.29 million project is funded in a joint partnership between the Victorian government, which has contributed $3.7 million, and the Ararat Rural City Council.
An Australian government grant of $945,000 through the Stronger Regions Fund will target further improvements at the performing arts centre.
The community information session will be held at the Ararat Performing Arts Centre on Barkly Street from 7pm to 8.30pm.
Attendees are urged to RSVP via email acamm@ararat.vic.gov.au by 5pm Monday, February 15.