The builders have moved into Building 22 on Jacksons Hill ahead of starting works to convert it into a cultural and arts centre.
“There will be quite a lot happening to finish restoring Building 22 and create comfortable, safe, practical spaces,” says Sunbury councillor (Emu Creek Ward) Kate Hamley.
“This includes repairs, upgrades and improvements to electrical, drainage, ventilation, heating, cooling, windows, accessibility improvements, as well as exterior paving and landscaping.
“The plan to transform Building 24 into an arts workshop – which hadn’t been started previously – and needs a full refurbishment.
“Doing these works in a heritage building requires care and precision so as not to destroy its features.”
With work budgeted at $8m due to be completed sometime in October, a plan (below) shows where local organisations might fit into the refurbished building.
Anchor users will include the Boilerhouse Theatre Group, a pottery group, art society, and the Wurundjeri group.
There will be a potential for a retail art co-op, a cultural food shop will sit close to the main entrance, and a rear corner near the gardens will serve as a larger history exhibition space. There will also be a studio to record podcasts.
Other small to medium spaces will be available to individual artists / creatives, and for meeting rooms.
At the entrance of the road leading the future Arts and Culture Precinct is Building 19, which currently used by Sunbury Radio. The site of future works.
Council is holding an invitation-only event Saturday 7 June.
Council links:
What’s planned…
- Heritage Restoration and Structural Repairs
- Comprehensive restoration of Building 22 and Building 24, including structural stabilization and preservation of original architectural elements.
- Addressing extensive overgrowth and decay that had overtaken the site during its period of abandonment.
- Adaptive Reuse for Cultural Purposes
- Conversion of Building 22 into a flexible arts and performance space, accommodating exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
- Repurposing Building 24 to support creative activities, such as artist studios or rehearsal spaces.
- Infrastructure Upgrades
- Installation of modern amenities, including lighting, heating, and ventilation systems, to meet contemporary standards while preserving heritage features.
- Enhancement of accessibility through the addition of ramps and compliant restrooms.
- Landscape and Site Improvements
- Development of surrounding areas to create inviting outdoor spaces for gatherings and performances.
- Integration of interpretive signage to educate visitors about the site’s historical significance.
