Eight-figure investment to create visionary arts precinct in city centre

  • 2016-08-06
Clifton Hill residents are on the doorstep of an exciting new arts precinct planned for Collingwood, just 2km away.

The development, which was described by City of Yarra Councillor Roberto Colanzi as both visionary and contemporary, has received an $11m investment by the State Government.

Cr. Colanzi said he was thrilled with the news that the old Collingwood Technical School site in Johnston Street is to become a cutting-edge creative centre.

He said the partially derelict site was set to be transformed by the new arts precinct, which will make available affordable spaces for artists, arts organisations, activities and creative businesses in a central location within the City of Yarra.

Banner printing recently advertised the Leaps and Bounds fourth music festival, which is an example of one of many events Council hosts in a bid to keep the arts alive in the city, according to Colanzi.

He said council also supported live music venues in the area, as well as performers, visual artists and theatre-makers through its Room to Create fund, and grants programmes.

The councillor said the city’s artistic community and creative industries were very much a part of its identity, and its recognition by the Government through the latest funding was well received.

Contemporary Arts Precincts (CAP) has teamed with the State Government for the project, which will see the three triple-storey constructions redeveloped and a large leafy courtyard established.

The new arts precinct is expected to be completed by Christmas 2018.