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First Step Towards New Community SpaceThe vision of a vibrant community space in the centre of Cowes moves one step closer when landscaping work begins in the Cowes Town Square on 26 April. By Bass Caost - 13th April 2012 - Back to News The area between the Cowes Cultural Centre, Heritage Centre and Library will be transformed, as Stage one of a long term project to create a Cultural Precinct.
Bass Coast Shire Council’s Community and Economic Development Director, Steven Piasente, said the redevelopment will provide a focal area and usable space for the community.
"The Cultural Precinct is a big project, so we are undertaking it in stages. This first stage includes removing the disused foundation and some vegetation. We will also do some work on the drainage, put in a paved area and public lighting. Work will begin later this month and there will be barriers in place to protect pedestrians. Unfortunately, there will be some disruption to the public, including vehicle access," said Mr Piasente.
"Our contractors, EcoForm, will do everything they can to minimise the disruption. We expect the work will take about ten weeks to complete."
Mr Piasente confirmed that after the landscaping, public furniture and artwork would be installed.
"We are very pleased to have an artist of the calibre of Dr Anton Hasell involved in this project. Dr Hasell’s work features at iconic Victorian tourist attractions such as Federation Square and Sovereign Hill, so his "Harmony Bells" concept for Cowes is in illustrious company," explained Mr Piasente.
"Local artist David Fincher will create two seats out of cypress pine. The designs are inspired by driftwood washed up on the rocks, shaped by the action of wind and wave and the unique rock formation of Phillip Island. Using cypress to make the seats is not only long lasting; it gives the furniture another connection to Cowes."
The landscaping work is the first step in a project that will ultimately provide a refurbished and extended library, expanded Gallery and Cultural Centre and a new multi-purpose space attached to the Heritage Centre. Consultation on the Cultural Precinct project ran from 2004 until 2010. Designs for Stage one (Town Square redevelopment) are on display at the Cowes Cultural Centre. The next step in the project will be to develop design plans for Stage two. This will be included for consideration in the 2012/13 Budget.
The estimated cost of Stage one of the Cowes Cultural Precinct (work on the Town Square) is $330,000. This was outlined in a report to Council in November 2011. This figure includes a $157,000 contribution from the Regional Local Community Infrastructure Projects Fund. It does not include the public art component, which is funded from the annual public art allocation of Council’s budget.
To receive regular updates on projects in Cowes and on Phillip Island, please email your details to PI-Update@basscoast.vic.gov.au.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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