THE vacant Inglewood railway station will receive a new lease of life.
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The rail precinct will be transformed into a busy multi-purpose community space as part of the state government’s Community Use of Vacant Rail Buildings Program.
Minister for Public Transport Terry Mulder announced the news on Tuesday and revealed Loddon Shire Council had taken on the lease of the property.
The converted station building will be used by Inglewood Districts Health Service, while Workspace Australia and the Goldfields Choir will set up base in the goods shed and Foodbank will have the use of a new shed built alongside.
“Through this innovative partnership between the Inglewood community and the Coalition government, the township’s station and goods shed will be open for business after decades in disrepair,” said Mr Mulder.
The station and goods shed will be open for business after decades in disrepair.
- Terry Mulder
Representing Mr Mulder at the station, Member for Northern Victoria Damian Drum said the refurbishment would bring considerable value to Inglewood.
“We will be providing community-based social and economic development opportunities, which will enhance business development, the availability of health and community services and community participation in Inglewood and the surrounding district,” he said.
“Inglewood station is nearly 140-years-old and with these works, I look forward to seeing it serve the local community for decades to come. “
Loddon Shire Mayor Gavan Holt said the council was delighted with the announcement.
“We are excited to be involved in this project, which will assist in building the prosperity of Inglewood and provide a highly useful facility for the community,” he said.
The redevelopment is being co-ordinated through VicTrack, which will manage the project work and retain ownership of the property.
Work is expected to start in mid-2014 and tenants should be able to move in by spring.