Skip to main content

Thank you for your interest, nominations are now closed.

Council is establishing a community reference group to provide inputs into the development of three masterplan design options for the Williamstown Mechanics Institute, one of the most significant heritage buildings in Hobsons Bay.

The site comprises of the main building and the timber caretaker’s cottage and was constructed in stages between 1860 and 1890. Although currently not in use, it has previously undergone many identities, including as an education institution, a cinema, a theatre, a public hall, a library and a museum. In more recent decades, it has been home to pivotal local cultural organisations including the Williamstown Historical Society, the Williamstown Musical Theatre Company Inc, and Williamstown Film Society.

The purpose of the group

  • Provide an opportunity for key stakeholders to provide feedback on the development of masterplan design options.

  • Ensure options reflect the outcomes of the engagement process and are fit for purpose for future users.

  • Provide key stakeholders with a clear communication channel and ensure transparency of process for stakeholders.

  • Ensure key stakeholders are informed of the various additional considerations around masterplan design development, including heritage, planning and building code requirements

Background

Council is currently focused on developing the long term vision for the site, through a community engagement and consultation process which will feed into masterplan design options for further refinement into a final masterplan.

Initial engagement phases have focused on hearing feedback from key stakeholders with ties to the site, representatives from the local community, culture and business groups as well as the broader Hobson’s Bay community.

A wealth of feedback has been received and reviewed. In conjunction with Clarke Hopkins Clarke Architects, three different possible design directions have been identified, each with a focus on a different theme.

The next stage of the project involves developing these three themes into three master plan design options. Council wishes to ensure that key stakeholders have an opportunity to provide feedback as part of this process.

Key priorities for the Mechanics Institute Masterplan

  • A space for community

    • Identify and maximise community benefit
    • Continue relationship with existing and new community groups
    • Opportunity for a flexible space, with innovative ways for community groups to operate

  • A proud heritage place

    • Restore and celebrate a prominent Williamstown landmark
    • Understand and interpret heritage of the site
    • Heritage and history is visible and obvious in the site
    • Adaptive reuse potential to open up the site

  • A place with economic sustainability

    • Ensure funds for ongoing maintenance costs, so the heritage building can thrive into the future
    • Increase diversity of businesses in Williamstown
    • Activate the Electra street precinct in a respectful way

  • A new destination for Williamstown

    • Attracts a wide range of visitors (local and wider)
    • A complementary character to Nelson Place and waterfront
    • Utlilise different parts of the site for more activeness active uses and transition from residential uses
    • Aesthetic, local and unique character

Privacy Collection Statement

Hobson's Bay City Council is committed to protecting your privacy. Council is collecting your personal information for the administration of your submission and/or directly related purposes. Council may disclose your information if required or authorized to do so by legislation. Requests for access and/or correction to your personal information should be made to Council’s Privacy Officer on telephone 1300 179 944.

To view Council’s Privacy Policy https://www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au/Website-Information/Privacy

Hobsons Bay City Council acknowledges the Bunurong People of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of these municipal lands and waterways, and pay our respects to Elders past and present.



Artwork: ‘Bandu Gaddaan’ (Come together as one mob), Elverina Johnson 2018

Interpreter Service

If you are a non-English seaker, you can call Hobsons Bay interpreter service for free on:

9932 1212

Contact Us

Our friendly customer service call centre is open Monday to Friday 8.30am - 5pm to assist with all enquiries

Phone 1300 179 944
Email customerservice@hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
Website www.hobsonsbay.vic.gov.au
Social Links