Yarra Ranges Civic Centre Redevelopment construction update

Currently in the final stages of construction, we look forward to seeing the completion of the Yarra Ranges Civic Centre Redevelopment in early 2022.

This major project involves extensive refurbishment and extension to the council’s Anderson Street offices into a flexible multi-purpose centre. Located within Lilydale’s main street, our design enhances underutilised public space to create a dynamic new civic hub.

Working closely with Ziebell Landscape Architecture (ZLA), and consultation with stakeholders, working and community groups, we have created a welcoming and accessible design influenced by the Yarra Ranges natural bushland setting. Designed to meet high-level sustainability targets, the project involves comprehensive upgrades to outdated services and infrastructure, and includes new Activity Based Working for staff.

The civic centre is one of several projects we’re working on that involves a strong indigenous focus. As one of the first Australian councils to adopt approaches towards reconciliation, Yarra Ranges Council is committed to raising awareness of indigenous issues, culture and history. From the outset, we engaged with Yarra Ranges Council Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC) to ensure the new civic centre reflects council’s longstanding connection to its indigenous Wurundjeri heritage.

Through ongoing consultation with the IAC, key indigenous aspects informed the design, including the acknowledgment to country sign at the entry, a curated indigenous art installation, rooms named after indigenous community leaders, and indigenous signage throughout. The building’s exterior has also been shaped through our dialogue with IAC.

Click the video below for the latest site update from Johns Lyng Commercial Builders.

Nearing completion, the latest works on site include internal wall construction and plastering, along with window installation, roofing, stormwater and front entrance works to the exterior.