Campaspe Shire mayor Chrissy Weller said the contract was recently awarded to contractor, Intrec, who will move onto the site from Friday.

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"This exciting project for Echuca East will see a barren area converted to an active community play space that will improve the health and wellbeing of the local community," she said.

"Stage one works involve the construction of a large community multi-purpose building, onsite parking and playground."

"Stage two works involve the redevelopment of open spaces, dog zones, community group storage shed and a second toilet block."

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A master plan of the reserve, which adjoins Sutton Street and the Echuca East Primary School, was developed in consultation with the local community and user groups in 2015.

Funding for the project was secured through the Community Infrastructure Loans Scheme, a low interest subsidised loan program offered by the Victorian Government to local government to deliver significant community infrastructure projects.

"Once the new community centre has been completed, community user groups can move in and the existing ad hoc buildings within the reserve will then be demolished," Cr Weller said.

"Access to parts of the reserve will be restricted during construction, with fencing in place."

The reserve is used by a number of community groups, including Community Radio EMFM, Echuca Holiday After School Program, Echuca & District Kennel Club, Echuca Moama & District Dog Obedience Club, Rich River Quilter's & Friends, Echuca Girl Guides, Echuca Apex Club, and Echuca East Primary School, as well as the wider community for walking and cycling.

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Council said despite the uses of the site, the majority of facilities no longer met the needs of the community, are in poor condition, and not compliant with various regulations and are nearing the end of their useful life.

Stage one works are planned to be completed by February 2022 and stage two by October 2022.

More details about the project are available online at www.campaspe.vic.gov.au

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