The City of Casey recently announced a visionary plan to create a unique
cultural, community and civic precinct at Fountain Gate in Narre
Warren.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon said the announcement of the $125 million Casey Cultural and Civic Precinct was fantastic news, not only for Casey’s 270,000 residents, but also for residents of the outer east and south east of Melbourne.
“The Casey Cultural and Civic Precinct is one of the largest projects ever embarked upon by local government in Victoria and will be a unique and iconic facility of which the community can be extremely proud.
“As the Casey community continues to grow, residents, artists, performers, schools and community groups want to see a facility built in the area which reflects their aspirations and showcases our status as Victoria’s largest and most vibrant municipality.
“The precinct will be an innovative multi-purpose facility at the heart of the community, combining cultural, community and civic amenities under one roof.”
The Casey Cultural and Civic Precinct will comprise a regional theatre, multi-purpose exhibition space, regional art gallery, new community library, community meeting rooms, civic centre and community plaza.
Due to many years of responsible financial management, Council is able to finance the Casey Cultural and Civic Precinct without an increase to rates and will use a combination of savings, a loan and external funding.
Cr Stapledon said that as the project will benefit the wider community and region, particularly artists, performing arts groups and local schools, Council would be calling on the State and Federal Governments to contribute funding.
“I also wish to acknowledge Councillor Wayne Smith for his vision in relation to the regional theatre and art gallery and to acknowledge the active support of all Councillors in supporting the arts community and for supporting a precinct for the entire community.”
This project is set to further enhance the Fountain Gate major activity centre and will be located adjacent to Casey Aquatic and Recreation Centre.
The project will also contribute significantly to the economic development of the region.
“The $125 million project will provide at least 1000 jobs during the construction phase, inject more than $300 million into the regional economy and will also stimulate the financial growth and sustainability of the arts and cultural sector.”
