New Green Space to Foster Greater Civic and Community Connection
Published on 29 May 2024
Work has commenced on creating Maribyrnong’s newest green space.
The new civic park will provide a central focus for the redeveloped Civic Precinct and Community Hub.
In line with what we heard from the community, Mayor Cr Cuc Lam said shade, seating, and a focus on soft surfaces and cultural and Indigenous history will all be reflected.
“Alongside a large open lawn for gatherings, picnics and community events, and a smaller lawn for more intimate get-togethers, we’ll be planting 105 new trees providing the shade and greenery you asked for.
“Up to 80% of all plantings will be Indigenous and we’re also liaising closely with First Nations around opportunities to incorporate a gathering circle to celebrate country,” Mayor Lam said.
“The new park will also include accessible paths, ramps, and stairs”.
The civic park will adjoin a new two-storey office and community building featuring flexible working spaces, multi-use spaces to support community activities, fully accessible toilets, and a wide range of community meeting rooms integrated with a Community Form and the heritage Town Hall.
Mayor Lam said Council has considered all opportunities to reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency and enhance biodiversity during construction, with the aim of achieving a six star Green Star accredited rating for the building.
This includes the use of:
- Timber and carbon neutral certified concrete and plasterboard to support a 45% reduction in upfront carbon emissions.
- 60,000 litre rainwater tank providing water for the toilets and irrigation of the civic park.
- Roof-mounted solar system and centralised all-electric thermal plan.
- Dedication of a third of the new build boundary to landscaping.
- Including 20 bike spaces and dedicated car spaces for electric vehicles.
Refurbishment and conservation works are also progressing on the iconic Town Hall building to upgrade internal finishes and provide new public meeting spaces.
Structural additions have been made to the almost 90-year old building and the metal roof has also been replaced. Restoration works, including brick and mortar repairs, are also now underway on the rear façade, which was previously connected to the old office building.
When the project is complete, Mayor Lam said the historic Town Hall will have been returned to its former glory with a modern and sustainable operational workplace addition and new green space that will help grow and foster the civic and community connection.
“The Civic Precinct and Community Hub will be a modern, environmentally friendly space that pays homage to the rich history of the site and wider City, and will be a welcoming place our community can enjoy for years to come,” she said.
Maribyrnong News
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