A Hoppers Crossing community centre has been identified as an under-utilised Wyndham council asset that would benefit from private-sector investment.
Property advocacy group the Property Council of Australia earmarked the Central Park Community Centre and carpark as one of 101 local government assets in Victoria that could be sold to the private sector to help rejuvenate neighbourhoods and improve local community services.
The centre in Lonsdale Circuit has three activity rooms that can be hired for functions such as dances, meetings, exercise classes and seminars.
Asher Judah, deputy executive director (Victoria) of the property council, said the Lonsdale Circuit site was identified in the property council’s Hidden in Plain Site report as ideal for private sector investment based on its proximity to public transport, retail amenity and the local industrial belt.
“[This] suggests good potential for job creation,” Mr Judah said. “There’s also a park next to the site, which offers quality open space. Our report shows this site has higher potential for redevelopment and repurposing, primarily based on its size and location.
“This can take a number of forms, some of which include community uses. While we don’t advocate a particular development outcome, our intention is for this site to be recognised by the council in its strategic planning and discussions with the private sector. It could be very useful to the community in unlocking capital for infrastructure investment.
“The final decision will rest with [Wyndham] council,” Mr Judah said.
The property council report was released two months after Wyndham council asked for expressions of interest for three carparks in Werribee CBD with a view to attracting private sector interest in developing new roles for the sites.
The property council’s Jennifer Cunich said there was opportunity across the state to unlock sites for infrastructure development and renewal.
“At a time when local governments face increased financial pressure from rising costs, our report offers a pathway to unlocking unrealised capital.”
