Have a look at our interactive timeline below to read more about what we’ve done so far, all the support we've gained, and what we still need to do (hover over the ' ' and icons for more information).
Accessible detail from above timeline
2016 Community Request
The community told Council that they wanted the renovation of the Footscray library to be more than just a library; they voiced a need for better library facilities and more community spaces for meetings, gatherings, performances and exhibitions.
2017-2018 Feasibility Study & Community Engagement
Architectus & Schmidt Hammer Lassen Architects conducted a feasibility study with broad community engagement. The small to large concepts proposed a modern library, flexible performing arts venue, gallery & exhibition spaces, community meeting spaces, Council administration offices, commercial and non-for profit opportunities; set in open green space in the centre of Footscray. Click here to read the Feasibility Report.
2019 Business Case & Community Consultation
Biruu prepared the business case based on the concepts, including investment logic map and shovel-ready plan to the Department of Treasury Finance’s requirements. Following Council's endorsement, the community was consulted to seek feedback on the scale, concept design options, purpose and functionality of the proposed facilities. Click here to see the Consultation Results.
2020 Council Endorsement of the Concept
Following the overwhelming response from the community from the four-month community consultation process, Council endorsed to adopt the ‘large’ concept as the preferred option, to commence targeted advocacy and to commit partial funding for the design of the project.
2021 Advocacy for Support & Funding
The Mayor, Councillors, CEO and Council project team, along with local MP Katie Hall, have continued to strongly advocate for NeXT. State and Federal ministers and departments have been briefed and met with overall support. Partnerships have been formed with key philanthropic organisations, educational institutions, arts and cultural organisations.
NeXT Steps - Funding Commitment
NeXT is an ambitious project, which will only proceed with funding from the 3 tiers of government – Local, State and Federal. Council has committed to a proportion of the required funds to realise the vision, but now we need commitment from the State and Federal government. Once the funding arrangements are formed, the design process can proceed.