Maribyrnong Civic Precinct and Community Hub

The City of Maribyrnong’s Town Hall Renewal project is a transformative initiative that breathes new life into the heart of the community. The project aims to be a viable, long term, sustainable solution with far-reaching aspirations for the future of Council and the community. The redevelopment reconnects and celebrates the heritage Footscray Town Hall, with a refurbishment that provides an improved customer service experience in modern facilities for the community and Council staff.

Featuring a new community park with contributions from First Nations artists, the revitalised precinct seeks to foster civic and community connection, while also future proofing for future generations.

The new building and park are targeting 6 stars under the Green Building of Australia’s Green Star Buildings category: Victoria’s first Civic building to achieve a six-star Green Star rating.

The design looks to the future with its form, expression, construction and detail. Contemporary, natural materials aim to provide a sensitive, sustainable and respectful response to the existing Footscray Tow Hall while also embracing the diverse and evolving culture of Maribyrnong.
Stephen Webb
DesignInc Director

Location: Wurundjeri Country
Footscray,
Client: City of Maribyrnong
Value: $43M
Scale: 3,500sqm
Year: 2024
Project Contact: Stephen Webb
Photography: Dianna Snape
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Design inspiration and connection to nature

The design draws inspiration from the nearby Maribyrnong River, with its flowing, dynamic nature symbolically reflected throughout the precinct’s design, evoking a strong sense of place. Green spaces and natural elements are seamlessly integrated, enhancing the area’s connection to the outdoors and providing tranquil spaces for the community to gather, reflect, and relax.

The new park features a large open lawn area for gatherings, picnics and community events and a smaller lawn for more intimate get-togethers for smaller groups.

A terraced rock boulder garden, incorporating a gathering circle celebrates Country along with the use of indigenous plantings in the garden area.

A central, biophilic forum connects old and new offering physical and cultural references to the past and the future.

The workplace design places the health of building users at its core and is designed to respond flexibly to changes in how workplaces may be used in the future.

This revitalisation serves as a model for how sustainable design, community engagement, and heritage preservation can come together to create a harmonious and future-forward public space.

Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari, said the new Civic Precinct and Community Hub boasts a modern, environmentally friendly space representing leadership in sustainable design while also paying homage to the rich history of the site and the wider City.

The revitalisation of our beloved historic Town Hall marks an exciting milestone in our Council’s history, reflecting our dedication to preserving heritage while investing in resources that will benefit our community for years to come.
Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari
Maribyrnong City Council

By linking our civic building with the iconic Town Hall and creating a community park onsite that welcomes Council and residents alike, we strengthen this bond and reinforce our belief that we are stronger when we come together, supporting one another to achieve our shared goal to exist in a vibrant and thriving community.
Mayor, Cr Pradeep Tiwari
Maribyrnong City Council