Community Consultation Bacchus Marsh Library Development

Executive SummaryThe Moorabool Shire Council has determined that the current library facilities are inadequateand do not meet the growing needs of the community.In light of this, Council has resolved to construct a new multipurpose library facility on Councilowned land in Main Street, Bacchus Marsh.Significant planning has already taken place in relation to the design and functionality of anew library facility, however considerable time has passed since this work was done andstakeholders consulted. In view of this, it was considered timely that project stakeholdersand the community were re-engaged to determine a more detailed brief for the facility.The aim of this report is to provide a summary of the feedback obtained from theconsultation process.Summary of feedbackApplying a consultative framework, a number of individuals and groups were consulted overa four week period using a range of methods including; a community survey, one on oneinterviews with stakeholders, a mass mail out to community groups shire wide, various mediaactivity, and presentations to interested parties.The key messages derived from the consultation process are summarised below:• The new library facility must be an icon and a landmark for the town. It should make astatement and showcase Bacchus Marsh as a contemporary, growing, vibrantcommunity. It should create a destination; a community hub, not just a library, thatheightens the activity and excitement of the CBD.• Externally the building should be aesthetically pleasing, artistic and welcoming in design.It should capture the history of the town with attention given to combining an Australianinfluence with local historic materials and colours that are in tune with the surroundingenvironment.Page 2 of 47