The Ararat Arts Precinct has taken a major step forward with building firm, Nicholsons, appointed to deliver the cultural hub, with construction set to begin this month.
The news comes as Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford announced a further $1.5 million for the project, on top of the Andrews Labor Government’s existing $5.2 million investment.
Ms Pulford today met with Ararat Rural City Council Mayor, Paul Hooper, and confirmed that the $7.73 million project would create 19 construction jobs and five full time jobs once complete.
Ararat’s historic Town Hall will be redeveloped, enhancing the Ararat Performing Arts Centre (APAC) and the Ararat Regional Art Gallery (ARAG), both housed in the building.
The project includes:
- A new public entrance to the Ararat Regional Art Gallery
- Expanding and enhancing art gallery and performance spaces
- Upgrading public amenities
- Upgrading the Ararat Performing Arts Centre foyer and a new box office
- A new café and bar
- Landscaping upgrades.
All existing spaces will be refurbished to make them accessible for people of all abilities. New glazing, insulation and climate controls will be installed to maximise building efficiency, and improvements will be undertaken to the loading bay, car parks and driveways.
The enhanced facilities, along with expanded display and storage spaces, will further Ararat’s reputation as a cultural tourism destination, capable of developing and attracting ambitious, blockbuster programs.
It will increase the town’s ability to attract major exhibitions and nationally recognised performers to the region, providing a boost to the local economy and creating jobs.
Construction will begin this month and is anticipated to be completed by mid-next year.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development Jaala Pulford
“Victoria’s arts and cultural scene don't just stop on the edge of Melbourne. This announcement well and truly puts Ararat on the map as a cultural, performing arts and tourism destination not to miss.”
“Through our investment, we’re breathing new life into the historic Town Hall building and reactivating an iconic building in Ararat.”
Quote attributable to Ararat Rural City Mayor Paul Hooper
“It’s incredibly heartening to note the support we have received from Government, and also from the broader community, all of which is helping bring this vision to reality.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020