The works are a huge boost to the Heathcote community, which will enjoy the fruits of improved social infrastructure.
The project incorporates Heathcote Library, a technology access hub, flexible community spaces, co-working spaces, a customer service centre, maternal and child health service, and landscaping.
Heathcote Library will be upgraded to serve as a prominent and key community hub service and activator. It will see it’s physical footprint nearly doubled, meeting the national library standard for floorspace area to accommodate Heathcote and District's current and future population growth, predicted to reach 4,343 by 2036.
Two existing heritage-listed buildings – the Municipal Office and former Court House – will be expanded and adapted as part of the Stage One works, resulting in a multi-purpose and flexible community hub that can support delivery of many different services and community activities.
This project is jointly funded with an investment of $2.03 million from the Australian Government and the City of Greater Bendigo contributing $2.3million.
The works are expected to finish in November 2027, weather permitting, and in the interim, will invigorate the local economy.
Through the Growing Regions Program, the Australian Government is supporting regional communities to go from strength to strength, and providing funds for capital works that make our communities even better places to live.
For more information on the Growing Regions Program go to: www.infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions/regional-australia/regional-and-community-programs/growing-regions-program.
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Bendigo, Lisa Chesters MP:
“I am thrilled works have started on this priority project in Heathcote.
“This project will deliver the transformation of two existing community spaces including the Heathcote Library, to support diverse social inclusion and foster community connections. Public libraries also play an important role in supporting education and literacy.
“During works and once completed, this project will bring new opportunities for Heathcote and I look forward to seeing the benefits flow as works get underway – supporting local jobs and the local economy.”
Quotes attributable to City of Greater Bendigo Mayor, Cr Andrea Metcalf:
“The upgrades will help to preserve the heritage values of the buildings, bring them up to contemporary accessibility and multi-purpose standards and make them more energy efficient. It will be an important community hub that can support many different community needs, and uses, now and into the future.
“Community hubs are important for healthy, sustainable communities and the City is excited to see this project now underway.”
