Following an extensive study of options, Maroondah City Council has agreed to set aside space at Quambee Reserve as the future location for the North Ringwood Community House, subject to further consultation.

Council will provide $20,000 in the 2011/12 Budget towards the development of a master plan to further investigate a proposed relocation of the House to Quambee Reserve.

Maroondah Mayor Councillor Alex Makin said the community house has outgrown the current premises at the rear of Holy Spirit Parish in Oban Road.

“Council and the Department of Planning and Community Development funded a Relocation Feasibility Study which found that the current premises were aged, undersized, poorly situated, had no disability access and had traffic and parking issues,” Cr Makin said.

“Council investigated several sites in the North Ringwood areas, identifying Quambee Reserve as the most appropriate venue for the House to relocate,” Cr Makin said.

“Council will provide $20,000 in the 2011/12 Budget for the development of a master plan which will include consultation with Community House staff, user groups and local residents as well as traffic and parking assessments, a design scope of the facility requirements and further design works,” Cr Makin said.

“North Ringwood Community House is an important community hub which provides a range of activities for various groups and individuals within the Maroondah community. Council will continue to work with the House’s Committee of Management to ensure that it can continue to meet the changing needs of our community,” Cr Makin said.

North Ringwood Community House Manager Sue McDermott said all those involved with the House were absolutely thrilled with Council’s decision.

“This decision will ensure we will have a future after a long period of uncertainty. I thank the Mayor and Councillors for their support throughout this process,” she said.

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