Community feedback sought on pre-school expansion

THE Surf Coast Shire is seeking community feedback on a Moriac Pre-school draft concept design as it works towards a minor expansion and refurbishment.

The project aims to increase the pre-school’s licenced places and improve safety, access and connection to surrounding open spaces.

Run by a voluntary committee of management, the pre-school has been a hub for the town since 1970.

Winchelsea Ward councillor Heather Wellington encouraged locals to have their say on the project.

“This site is a hub of activity in Moriac, welcoming kindergartners and also families utilising the Child and Family Health service,” she said.

“The proposed design integrates new and old and seeks to retain the much-loved character of the existing site.”

As part of the works the pre-school will receive a new playroom, increased outdoor space, an improved Child and Family Health space, new frontage and reception and more.

The exterior of the building aims to celebrate the character of the site, using timber cladding and bricks to match brickwork in existing areas.

“The parent committee of management has been instrumental in helping council reach this milestone, with members’ input helping to shape the draft concept design,” Cr Wellington said.

“We also heard from the pre-schoolers, who drew fantastic pictures of items they would like at their kinder.”

The shire received a $40,000 grant from the Victorian government’s Building Blocks Planning Grants to complete the design and will seek further funding for the construction phase of the project.

The survey will close on September 13 with feedback to help shape the final design.

For more information or to provide feedback, head to yoursay.surfcoast.vic.gov.au or phone 5261 0600 to arrange a paper survey.