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Work begins on $6.5 million Old Courthouse redevelopment
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
11:15 AM
Media Releases
Works have begun to redevelop the Old Geelong Courthouse on the corner of Gheringhap and Little Malop Streets.
The historic building is home to Back to Back Theatre, Courthouse Arts and the Courthouse Café.
Under the $6.5 million project, all internal areas will be completely renovated including the theatre, back of house facilities, art gallery and administration areas. A new internal staircase and lobby will be built and new toilets will be installed.
The old police cells will be demolished to make way for a new theatre rehearsal space and the façade will be restored with improved access to the building and outdoor café area.
Local Design firm Bradbury Dicker was appointed as the architect for the project and the construction tender has been awarded to another local company, Rendine Constructions. The works are expected to take about 12 months to complete.
Back to Back Theatre and Courthouse Arts have been relocated into temporary accommodation for the duration of the works. The café will continue to operate as normal.
The City’s Education and Youth portfolio holder Cr Jan Farrell said, “The building’s interior will be completely renovated, making better use of the space and drastically improving facilities for Back to Back Theatre and Courthouse Arts.“
“This is the first stage of the redevelopment of Geelong’s Cultural Precinct, which will revitalise the arts and culture hub on Lt Malop Street,” Cr Farrell said.
The Old Courthouse redevelopment is being funded by the State Government – through Regional Development Victoria - and the City of Greater Geelong will manage the project.
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