Chiltern is to get its much anticipated community hub, with the Victorian Government announcing $2.5M to have the facility built sooner than expected.
The funding was announced as part of the Victorian Government's $2.7 billion building works package designed to stimulate the economy during the COVID-19 crisis.
The works involve a major construction adjacent to, and including the old municipal building, which will be home to community-based services including kindergarten, childcare and library services.
Mayor Jenny O'Connor said the funding announcement was unexpected, but very welcomed.
"This week, Indigo Shire has been promised $3M for projects that will have a significant impact on our struggling economy and provide much needed community assets."
"The community hub was identified thought the Chiltern Placemaking Plan. We have undertaken extensive community consultation to ensure that the facility meets community needs and expectations and we will soon be going back to seek further feedback on the final designs," Mayor O'Connor said.
"The building is a bold step for Chiltern, meeting the vision of Heritage Town: Bold Future and we're very excited to soon present design options to the community which will be sensitive to the significant old municipal building and contemporary in access and style"."
Cr O'Connor said when complete, the hub will offer a number of key community services in a welcoming and comfortable space with modern meeting rooms and the latest technology. It will also provide residents access to a contemporary Library space which incorporates features from some of the biggest and best libraries in Australia.
"We'll also be able to offer best practice kinder and childcare facilities as well as Maternal and Child Health facilities, making the town attractive to young families."
Community consultation on the design options will commence in the next few weeks.
