Riddells Creek Leisure Centre will be expanded to create more space after receiving $230,000 from the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund.
The project will nearly double the size of the current multipurpose room at the leisure centre, creating more room for people to take part in activities such as dancing, martial arts and group fitness classes.
There will also be a new kitchenette, additional storage space, wall mirrors and mounted ballet barre.
Construction is expected to commence in April.
Making the announcement on behalf of Local Government Minister Shaun Leane, Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said she was pleased to see the government invest in the growing community.
“I’m delighted the Victorian Government has continued its support for our thriving community with yet more significant funding for our fantastic Riddells Creek Leisure Centre expansion,” she said.
“We know the Macedon Ranges is a great place to live, and the Riddells Creek Leisure Centre expansion will make it an even better one – this investment will be great for local families, children and everyone in our community.”
Macedon Ranges Mayor Jennifer Anderson said council welcomed the funding announcement, as Riddells Creek Leisure Centre was an important recreational hub for more than 31,000 residents who live within 15 to 20 minutes of the facility.
“Council has been aware of requests from local groups for more indoor spaces for leisure and community activities in and around Riddells Creek, and without nearby suitable facilities residents have been required to travel significant distances to participate,” she said.
“Council has recognised the community demand and noted the increase of community run programs in the growing areas of Gisborne and New Gisborne and Riddells Creek, so the Riddells Creek Leisure Centre project has been prioritised to address gaps in indoor leisure program spaces in these communities.
“The multi-purpose room expansion will help meet critical local community infrastructure needs while supporting the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Hub development in New Gisborne.”
It is the second time Macedon Ranges has received Growing Suburbs Fund support, after the fund was expanded to peri-urban councils in 2020. Last year, the fund allocated $3.2 million for stage one of the Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct.
