Share ideas for Games village

THE former Ballarat Saleyards site in Delacombe is to be transformed into an accommodation village for athletes competing in the 2026 Commonwealth Games, and community members are being asked to help shape the planning.

The precinct’s overhaul is being delivered by Development Victoria and is set to house about 1800 visiting sportspeople and the officials supporting them.

Following the Games’ completion, the village is also expected to become social housing.

Development Victoria’s interim group head for the Commonwealth Games, Geoff Ward, said it’s important Ballarat locals have their say on the legacy of the site.

“We’re asking people to tell us what makes the former Ballarat Saleyards site unique, and what we can do to help transform them into vibrant and sustainable communities for the long term,” he said.

“Victoria 2026 will also invest significantly in community infrastructure, including housing and world-class sports facilities.

“This will leave a legacy of affordable housing for the regions and modern sports infrastructure to encourage Victorians to get active and attract future major events.

“We want to hear from local residents, businesses, community groups, clubs and organisations in and around Ballarat about what makes the former saleyards site special now and how to enhance this for the Games, and beyond.”

Public consultation will be used to steer the direction of the site for social housing, with survey questions prompting ideas for preferred priorities, features, and how the village can benefit the broader community.

Input can be given via the online survey at bit.ly/3sZf1WG which is open until Sunday, 4 December.