Library development moves to next stage

THE proposed Wendouree Library and Learning Centre (WLLC) project is moving closer to reality, with the City of Ballarat on Tuesday announcing the appointment of the lead architect.

Melbourne-based Haskell Architects will design the next stage of development with locally-owned Porter Architects – involved in the Ballarat Library redevelopment – playing a partnership role.

At the same time, preparations are underway for the next phase of community consultation, which will build on previous engagement and will allow residents a chance to have a say on what the facility should include.

The WLLC is one of the City’s highest priority projects, listed among tier one developments in its Advocacy Priority Projects Pipeline.

The City has indicated it will continue to lobby both Federal and State governments for funding to help cover the estimated $23 million development price tag.

“We are pressing on with the design to ensure the facility is shovel-ready as soon as possible,” mayor Cr Tracey Hargreaves said.

“We know the WLLC will stand as a beacon of community pride and progress in Ballarat’s north.

“That’s what makes it such an important project for all levels of government to support.

“The community’s input is also vital, and we encourage everyone to get involved in the engagement process to tell us what they want to see in their new library and learning centre.”

The City expects final designs to be ready by mid-2026.

Located at Weeramar Park on the corner of Gillies and Norman streets, the WLLC will replace the existing 250-square-metre library at Stockland Wendouree.

It will serve more than 40,000 people across Wendouree, Ballarat North, Invermay, Miners Rest and surrounding areas.

The proposed double-storey facility is anticipated to include a modern library, a City customer service point, study, activity and relaxation areas, a Visitor Information Centre site, a cafe with free Wi-Fi, and more.

The latest round of community consultation runs until Tuesday 30 September via the City’s MySay page.

In-person sessions also will be held, along with three Let’s Chat Councillor Roadshow sessions – Cr Jim Rinaldi (North Ward) at Miners Rest Community Hall on Tuesday 14 August; Cr Samantha McIntosh (Central Ward) at a location to be confirmed on Monday 8 September; and Cr Jay Morrison (Wendouree Ward) at a location to be confirmed on Thursday 11 September.