Kyneton residents have been asked to have a say on the use and management of the site of the former primary school.
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The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning is running a consultation process to ask the Kyneton community how they would like to see the site used.
In May the state government announced that the site of the former Kyneton Primary School would remain in public hands, after a draft master plan from Macedon Ranges Shire Council suggested mixed use development was one option for the site.
Local resident groups say they would like to see the facility used for the benefit of the community.
The 1.3 hectare site sits in the centre of Kyneton, and incorporates heritage buildings, a 1980s extension and an outdoor green space next to the Town Square.
The DELWP consultation process is asking what activities or services the community would like to see at the site, and how they would like it managed.
President of community organisation Kyneton Connections Eric Dearricott said the town is lacking a central community space for clubs and activities, asides from a small reserve.
Mr Dearricott said his group would like to see the site used for community groups such as the Early Learning Centre, Lions and Windarring.
“There’s a terrific grounds there and a great open space which would be excellent for community activities,” Mr Dearricott said.
“The site that should be used by the community and for the community… but we accept that to make it viable there may need to be some use of commercial space.”
Mr Dearricott also said many community groups struggle to find space to store their equipment.
For instance, as a member of the Daffodil and Arts Festival committee, he knows the group spends at least $1,000 a year storing equipment.
Kyneton resident Rob Bakes is chair of the recently incorporated community cooperative which is seeking manage the old primary school.
Mr Bakes said the Kyneton and District Town Square Cooperative had a business plan for the site to create affordable space for the community to use.
“There's all sorts of ideas about what we can do for the site to serve the community for the benefit and enjoyment of the whole Kyneton community,” he said.
“The community needs control of the school, control and responsibility of the school… it’s about building community, and strengthening community.”
The Kyneton Primary School site consultation process will last until October 5.
Community members can complete a survey at engage.vic.gov.au/, or contact Eloise Seddon at DELWP on 5430 4444 or email eloise.seddon@delwp.vic.gov.au
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