City of Greater Geelong receive planning permit for long-awaited arts hub

A long-awaited arts hub in Barwon Heads is one step closer to fruition after a Geelong architectural practice lodged a planning application for the development.

A long-awaited arts hub for Barwon Heads is one step closer to fruition after a Geelong architectural practice lodged a planning permit application for the development.

The $830,000 plans submitted by Four 18 Architecture propose to transform a former kindergarten building at Clifford Parade into a flexible studio space for an arts and community hub.

The planning application notes that the proposal is at a scale to function without significant off-site impact and will help support the community of Barwon Heads into the future.

Artist impression of the arts hub proposed for Barwon Heads.

“The proposal assists the community development of Barwon Heads through re-use of an existing public building in a location close to the main activity centre of Hitchcock Ave,” it said.

“The use of the land supports the identity of the Barwon Heads township and will support creative activities to continue to enhance the local artistic culture.”

The proposed arts hub will accommodate a range of arts based activities ranging from space for new artists through to learning opportunities based around art.

It will generally operate between 8am to 6pm, but may involve infrequent sessions to 10pm.

The number of people anticipated in the building at any one time will initially be 33, with opportunity for one-off events with more people to be considered on a case-by-case basis.

The project is funded by City of Greater Geelong and the State Government, who committed $1 million towards a hub at the site before the 2018 state election.

The site is owned by council.

Artist impression of the arts hub proposed for Barwon Heads.

Council gave its in-principle support last year for the development to begin and to enter into a funding agreement with the government.

But prior to the development proceeding, a planning permit is required.

Mayor Stephanie Asher said in May that council has received feedback over the years from the community supporting the development.

“The approved concept design is a wonderful step towards establishing a much-needed Barwon Heads arts and community hub,” she said.

“I look forward to hearing from locals again as we work out the finer details.”

Council will not make a decision on the application until after February 9.

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Originally published as City of Greater Geelong receive planning permit for long-awaited arts hub