Site works have commenced on the highly anticipated Emerald Hills Hub.
Initial works on the $6.63 million development involve fencing and signage installation, the identification and safe removal of asbestos from the materials used in the existing building, preparation and commencement of demolition works, and tree protections work with some minor vegetation removal.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Collin Ross said the project would rejuvenate the community space on the corner of Belgrave-Gembrook Road in Emerald and provide a much-needed upgrade to the facilities used by so many dedicated volunteers and community groups.
“This major new community hub will bring a range of existing community groups and activities under one roof,” councillor Ross said.
“The new building will provide additional multi-purpose meeting and activity spaces for community use and give this vibrant hills community an equally vibrant space to share in and grow.”
The project is funded thanks to $4.88 million from Cardinia Shire Council’s Capital Works Program, a grant of $1.5 million under the Australian Government’s National Stronger Regions Fund, and $250,000 from the Eastern Dandenong Ranges Group and Dandenong Ranges Community Bank Group.
According to the shire, the Hills Hub project has been a collaborative effort between the council and the community-established Hills Hub Advisory Committee who have met monthly since February 2015.
The advisory group consists of a wide range of stakeholders including facility user groups, representatives from local community groups and organisations, town and sporting committees, and many community members.
Cr Ross said the council was grateful to all those who had helped drive the project.
“We are thrilled to hear the groups that use the facilities here are excited about the changes ahead and what possibilities and opportunities will open up for them and the community when the new building is complete,” he said.
“During this first stage of site establishment, there will be a lot happening to prepare the site for construction of the new building.
“Council will be continuing to work with the advisory group and to communicate with the local community about the progress and any impacts of the project, both in person and online via updates on council’s website and Facebook page.”
Construction works will soon follow and will take about 12 months.
More information about this project, including artist impressions, is available for public viewing on the council’s website at www.cardinia.vic.gov.au/hillshub.
