The Villa Fortuna Action Group met councillors and members of the council executive this week.

The community group discussed its vision to transform the Golden Square mansion into an arts, cultural and heritage centre.

“We discussed the background of the site, potential uses and examples of similar places that have been developed successfully,” Villa Fortuna Action Group president Merle Hall said.

“We encouraged them to look into the potential of our proposal before they have to consider an offer from Defence.”

The Department of Defence owns the building and is conducting due diligence investigations prior to disposing of the property.

The investigations are expected to be completed by later this month or early July.

City of Greater Bendigo chief executive Craig Niemann said no other group had approached the council about the villa.

“We’re giving them an opportunity to present to the council what they think will be a best fit for that site.”