Fencing has now been erected around the Town Hall in Footscray ahead of the redevelopment of the heritage building and council offices, which is scheduled to begin this month.

Works will include the refurbishment and conservation of the 80-year-old heritage listed Town Hall building (in line with Heritage Victoria requirements), along with the demolition of the two existing office buildings and construction of a new, modern six-star Green Star administration building, a 200 seat facility and a new community park.

The Precinct designs, endorsed by Maribyrnoing Council last June, incorporate elements including: a warm and inviting space with a second entrance off Napier St into the Town Hall and the use of environmentally friendly materials and sustainable design elements to support Green Star accreditation.

Designs are still being finalised for the community park, which, in line with what the Council has heard from residents, which will include shade, seating, focus on soft surfaces (where practicable) and reflection of the cultural and indigenous history in the outdoor area.

“The final design strikes a balance between maintaining historical aspects and creating modern assets for future users. The forum space, which is the physical link between the old and the new, will include a new entry off Hyde St connecting to the community meeting spaces and new community park,” said a Council statement.

Council staff have relocated to the Central West Shopping Centre on the corner of Ashley St and South Rd, Braybrook, for the duration of the works, where officers will be available to meet by appointment only. A new Customer Service Centre has been established at Footscray Library, 56 Paisley St, Footscray, which is staffed 8.30am to 5pm daily.

Maribyrnong Council meetings are now being held at the Braybrook Community Hub.

The contract for works on the Civic Precinct and Community Hub Project, which are expected to be completed in the last quarter of 2024, was awarded to Melbourne based commercial construction company, Ireland Brown Constructions Pty Ltd, last September.

“The Footscray Town Hall has been a part of the civic fabric of Maribyrnong for more than 80 years,” said Cr Sarah Carter, Mayor. “And after many years in the planning, it is great to see the fencing going up signalling the start of the physical on the ground works that will ensure the longevity of this treasured historic building for our community.

“There are two years of renovations and works ahead, but once completed, the Civic Precinct and Community Hub will provide a modern, environmentally friendly space that not only pays homage to the rich history of the site and wider City, but also a space residents will be able to enjoy for years to come.”