General News
25 January, 2026
Council says progress is being made on town eyesores
ARARAT Rural City Council admits two sites in central Ararat surrounded by scaffolding are a frustration, but progress in being made. Scaffolding has remained in place for close to two years around two burnt out shops at the Woolworths complex and another shop at the corner of Barkly and Vincent Streets. Council says it remains committed to placing public safety first as repair work continues the privately owned buildings.
Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the length of time the scaffolding has been in place was not ideal.
“We fully understand the community’s frustration with how long these works have been ongoing. Council shares that frustration, but our priority is ensuring public safety until both sites are confirmed as structurally sound,” he said.
Dr Harrison said Council has been proactively working with the private property owners of both sites to reach safe and compliant outcomes as quickly as possible.
At the Vincent Street site, Council is awaiting final professional advice and hopes the scaffolding can be removed soon once all safety measures are verified.
At the High Street site near Woolworths, a building order remains in effect to ensure the community’s safety.
Council has also requested that the owners remove items such as building stays — which can be secured internally — and the temporary footpath safety plates.
A general tidy-up of the site has also been requested.
“We know how important a safe and attractive town centre is for residents and visitors alike,” Dr Harrison said.
“We’ll continue to push for a swift resolution with both property owners, and the scaffolding will be removed as soon as it’s safe to do so.”
“Council thanks the community for its patience and understanding as these privately managed works are brought to conclusion,” he said.
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