Gippsland › Latest news › East Gippsland Local News
Bairnsdale arts precinct has feasibility plan completed by East Gippsland Shire Council
Council concludes a feasibility plan for an arts precinct in Bairnsdale's CBD, with the goal of establishing a vibrant cultural hub. Collaboration and funding efforts underscore the commitment to community engagement and cultural enhancement.
An arts and culture precinct in Bairnsdale's CBD is the focus of a feasibility plan recently completed by East Gippsland Shire Council. The precinct would include a range of creative spaces to support different creative pursuits, providing an invigorating hub for Bairnsdale and surrounding areas.
The Bairnsdale Arts Precinct plan involves collaboration among government, Traditional Owners, and the private sector, featuring various cultural amenities
Arts precinct feasibility study
While an exciting development, council does recognise that the feasibility study is just the beginning. The feasibility study serves as a preliminary step, evaluating the viability of proposed plans and laying the groundwork for further community involvement, and a design stage when funding is available. Extensive consultation will be conducted throughout the progression of the project.
Spearheaded by Williams Ross Architects, the feasibility study explored the financial viability, cultural significance, environmental impact, and economic sustainability. The Bairnsdale Arts Precinct Feasibility Plan is a collaborative effort, bringing together government bodies, Traditional Owners, and the private sector.
A few of the precinct's envisioned features are a relocated Traditional Owner exhibition space, an expanded art gallery, a civic square housing a performing arts theatre and inviting riverfront spaces for recreation and exhibitions.
Stakeholder consultation group
To ensure diverse stakeholder input, council established a Project Reference Group (PRG) comprising representatives, including:
- EGMI
- Destination Gippsland
- East Gippsland Art Gallery
- Office of the Victorian Government Architects
- GLaWAC
- Community members
The involvement of Creative Arts Victoria, local performing dance groups, art studios, and musicians further enriched the consultation process.
Arts precinct development
Acting Chief Executive Officer Fiona Weigall said the Bairnsdale Arts Precinct represents a significant stride towards enhancing cultural activities, attracting visitors, and enriching the East Gippsland community's vibrancy and cultural richness. "Aligned with the Bairnsdale 2050 plans, this project seeks to create an exciting community space catering to both local and international visitors. It strategically aligns with the Culture and Creativity Strategy 2023 - 2033 and the Bairnsdale Growth Strategy, showcasing the council's commitment to a thriving arts community," Ms Weigall said.
Council is now actively seeking funding through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program to propel the project into the design phase. This grant, facilitated by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, and the Arts, underscores the department's dedication to serving regional communities and investing in their future.
A cornerstone of this development phase, subject to funding, will be continuing to engage with the community addressing concerns of individuals who have felt disengaged in previous stages.
Pictures from East Gippsland Art Gallery website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/
Published by: news@gippsland.com
Latest News
Baw Baw Shire Council welcomes Victorian government grants aiding Noojee transition from timber harvestingDarren Chester calls for stop to rural health merger citing risks to Gippsland services due to lack of consultation, secrecy and autonomy loss
Nicholson Primary School students get chance to discuss Parliament while receiving certificates from Darren Chester
Russell Broadbent urges government budget accountability to alleviate cost-of-living pressure to tackle inflation and alleviate cost-of-living pressures following the Reserve Bank decision
Senators to reject Fresh food tax after report reveals lack of clarity and adverse impact on farmers and families
Baw Baw Shire Council continues advocacy for key unfunded projects despite limited aid from 2024/25 Victorian State Budget
APS Drainage and Civil selected for culvert relining on Loch-Kernot Road in Bass Coast Shire from 13 May 2024 with $750,000 budget
Inspections identify maintenance needs for Cypress trees in San Remo as part of pioneering Bass Coast Urban Forest Strategy
Feedback wanted on draft Master Plan for Alex Goudie Native Park in Drouin by 2 June 2024
Victorian government budget supports safer regional roads with $11.5M for Princes Highway East and $10.7M for Sale Alternative Truck Route upgrades