Ash Bolt
The new Armstrong Creek library and community hub is now fully funded, with South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman announcing $1.5 million in state government funding for the project.
Mr Cheeseman said the City of Greater Geelong would receive grant from the state government’s Living Libraries Infrastructure Program.
The Living Libraries Infrastructure Program enables councils to deliver new or renewed library infrastructure to strengthen communities and encourage lifelong learning.
Securing government funding for the project was a priority for Mr Cheeseman, who had been running a petition calling for funding over the past month, which had received “hundreds of signatures”.
“I’m proud to announce that the Armstrong Creek library is now fully funded, thanks to a $1.5 million contribution from the Victorian government,” he said.
“I was proud to advocate for this project through my community petition, which attracted hundreds of signatures from the Armstrong Creek area. Thank you to everyone who put their name to support the library.
“It’s great to see the Victorian government supporting the exciting Armstrong Creek Library and Community Hub project with this investment – it’s going to be an incredible asset for this growing community.”
Mr Cheeseman said the library and community hub would be the first piece of community infrastructure at the Armstrong Creek Town Centre, which would ensure residents had access to important services and technology.
The City of Greater Geelong released its concept designs for the $18.5 million project in November, created by architects Buchan.
The 2500 square-metre library is expected to feature a collection of 40,000 books and resources, flexible spaces for children’s learning, youth programs and dedicated multi-purpose meeting spaces on level one, with creative spaces and bookable co-working amenities on level two.
The ground floor will serve as the civic interface with direct access to the external terraces and the town centre.
Its design was also inspired by the Wadawurrung culture, with a “Living Water” theme.
The city opened the community consultation on the designs in November and December and is expected to present a report on the results in the coming months.
