UPDATE: The first stage of the redevelopment at the Old Kyneton Primary School site has been officially completed, marking a significant step towards transforming the area into a vibrant mixed-use creative and community precinct. This milestone comes as the Macedon Ranges Council seeks urgent updates from Creative Victoria regarding the project’s status.
Following a council meeting in March, officials expressed concerns about delays and the lack of public communication regarding the redevelopment, which received a substantial commitment of $12 million from the state government in 2021. The council is pushing for clarity on the timeline for opening the completed areas, which are set to be unveiled by March 2024.
In a letter dated June, Claire Febey, Chief Executive of Creative Victoria, confirmed that phase one construction—a new gallery and events space—has been completed. She noted that an operational model is being finalized for the remaining works on the 1980s building. “Given the site’s historic nature and significant deterioration, the works were complex,” Febey stated.
The completed phase has transformed the historic bluestone building into a multi-purpose gallery, while the former library has been upgraded for community use. Additionally, a new entrance building has been constructed to enhance visitor access, alongside landscaping efforts that include planting over 3,000 new plants across the site.
Rebecca Stockfeld, acting chief executive of the council, emphasized the importance of timely information. “We are eager for updates and a clear timeline for the next stages,” she said. Following the correspondence from Creative Victoria, council representatives met to discuss further details and received additional confidential updates about the site.
Residents eagerly await information on the opening of the bluestone building and surrounding outdoor areas. Creative Victoria has indicated that they are in discussions with various stakeholders, including council staff and community members, to finalize arrangements for the operation of the newly developed spaces.
As this redevelopment progresses, the community remains engaged and hopeful for the revitalization of the Old Kyneton Primary School site, which aims to foster creativity and serve as a hub for local activities. Details regarding the next steps for phase two will be shared with the public as soon as they are available.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the council and Creative Victoria work to bring this ambitious project to fruition.
