All aboard for station works

A FUNDING commitment by the State Government included in the 2020/21 budget to turn Lethbridge Station into a community hub has been confirmed.

While the total cost of the works is yet to be revealed, the money is coming from a $9 million statewide package known as the Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program and spread across 10 buildings.

Works at Lethbridge Station will include structural repairs and renovation, a new kitchenette, as well as a new accessible toilet so the building can be used for community events and meetings.

Built in 1862 as part of the Geelong-Ballarat line, the station has been abandoned for years.

“The Lethbridge Station building is of great historical significance to the area and the restoration of this beautiful bluestone building will turn it into a real asset for the community,” said Member for Buninyong, Michaela Settle.

“I look forward to seeing the building restored to its former glory and brought back to life after many years of being vacant.”

The capital works are expected to turn the site into a local hub with the Lethbridge Community Group set to be the key tenants and look after the space once the renovation is completed.

Golden Plains Shire mayor Cr Helena Kirby said the announcement was a long time coming.

“This project has been a number of years in the making, and council is pleased to be able to partner with the Lethbridge Community Group to lease the building for community use,” she said.

“Council welcomes this funding commitment from the Victorian Government to restore the historic Lethbridge Station building and transform it into a space for the local community.”

Planning work for the project is ongoing and being looked after by VicTrack and involves a specialist heritage architect. Construction is expected to take place next year.