Big plans for Peter Krenz Centre

THE City of Greater Bendigo is planning a multi-stage overhaul of Eaglehawk’s Peter Krenz Centre, and feedback on the concept plan is now open.

The redevelopment of the centre would see it become a “diverse and vibrant” community hub, featuring a library, cafe and gym with community spaces and public toilets.

City manager of active and healthy communities Amy Johnston said the centre was built in the 70s for leisure purposes, with the region’s first indoor heated swimming pool built in the 90s.

“There are growing signs the centre is no longer meeting community needs and expectations and this is coupled with increasing maintenance costs due to the building’s age,” she said.

“Additionally, the Eaglehawk Library located in the Mechanics Institute Hall in Sailors Gully Road, has also outgrown its current home and the project provides a unique opportunity to incorporate the library in the new community hub,” Ms Johnston said.

Ms Johnston said a community reference group worked with the municipality in 2020 to coordinate the long-term vision of the centre and library.

“The group’s research, supported by technical reports, found the centre’s aquatic facilities still have approximately 15 to 20 years of remaining lifespan while the other parts have much less,” she said.

“This is one of the reasons the construction of a new community hub is the highest priority and the first stage of the project.

“It will offer better indoor/outdoor connections to other popular nearby facilities including Lake Neangar, the Eaglehawk Regional Playspace, McKern Skate Park and the Canterbury Park sports hub and gardens.”

The new community hub project would mean some of the existing centre would be demolished and a new addition constructed, overlooking Lake Neangar.

“The project is currently unfunded and undertaking the project in stages will help make it more affordable,” Ms Johnston said.

“However, the project will require considerable, future funding commitments from the City, and the Victorian and Australian Governments.”

Submit feedback on the concept plan via letstalkgreaterbendigo.com.au by Friday, 25 March.