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Town Hall redevelopment will be a showcase venue

A revolutionary new reversible stage features in redevelopment plans for Northcote Town Hall which are currently being reviewed by the community and local business leaders in the City of Darebin, Victoria.

"We are looking to create an area that is owned and used by the community, that revitalises the High Street business strip, and encourages growth and movement within the precinct," said Darebin Manager of Special Projects, Anne Vella.

The Northcote Civic Precinct Redevelopment Masterplan aims to revitalise the Northcote Town Hall and enhance community safety and participation. Anne Vella said this would be achieved through the application of integrated planning and environmental sustainability principles. The Northcote Town Hall will be redeveloped as a showcase community venue, with the Main Hall Stage very accessible from the civic square.

"The reversible stage concept, the first in Victoria, will link the back of the Town Hall to the Civic Square as an audience space and enable a diverse range of activities and events," Anne Vella said.

The Civic Square area has been identified as playing a critical role in the enhancement and success of the redevelopment.

"It will function as a meeting place for the wider community and present a distinct and positive image for High Street.

The Town Hall itself will undergo conservation works to maintain its structural integrity, fostering the participation of citizens in community, arts and cultural activities and offering function rooms, display areas, flexible theatre facilities and community meeting rooms.

"An underground car park for 53 vehicles is proposed, and we will test the viability of a multi storey retail and residential development with developers," Anne Vella said.

For further information contact Anne Vella, telephone (03) 9230 4550.

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