Contractors have been given the go-ahead to proceed with works for a new kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health service in Lancefield, following cultural heritage approvals.
Works had previously stopped on the High Street site following a discovery of a cultural artefact at the location.
Since its discovery, the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) has been working closely with Traditional Owners and Macedon Ranges Shire Council to take the time to safely assess the site, but recently received approval to resume works.
Council’s Director of Community Maria Weiss said it was vital that the cultural heritage process was not rushed in respect of the artefact found.
“We know how important it is to collaboratively work alongside our First Nations stakeholders and as soon as the discovery was made, it was essential that the VSBA took the time to complete further due diligence,” she said.
“Council appreciates the patience of all involved in this process—from land managers and the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, to current and potential kinder families—and we look forward to opening the new facility to the community next year.”
Construction of the new building, proposed to be named the Lancefield Children’s Centre, is forecast for completion by mid-2025.
For more information and updates, visit council’s project page or the VSBA project page.
