Mining site to be repurposed for public use

PLANNING is underway at a former mining site at 9-43 Chum Street in Golden Square to prepare the grounds for use by the local community.

As part of the process, a Remediation Action Plan is being put together by Development Victoria in collaboration with Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA), the Environmental Protection Authority and the City of Greater Bendigo.

The property is one of Bendigo’s largest infill sites, with close proximity to the city centre, public transport, shopping facilities, schools and health services.

Future activities will include remediation of soil affected by historic mining operations, completing capping of historic mineshafts, and works to support rectification and naturalisation of the creek that runs across the site.

The Chum Street precinct was a major hub for mining during the late 1860s and early 1870s, with large mining companies and individual miners working the gold-bearing reefs.

Prominent figures George Lansell (Fortuna) and Daniel Barnet Lazarus both had residences in the area.

Meanwhile, the search is underway for a contractor to carry out demolition works at the former Ballarat Saleyards after the completion of similar investigations.

“These sites are well located and ripe for transformation – they’re another step towards creating new homes, precincts and community assets in Ballarat and Bendigo, and supporting local jobs and growth,” Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing said.

Further details regarding the Chum Street project are available on the Development Victoria website, while direct enquiries can be forwarded to [email protected].