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COMMUNITY groups and heritage workers have slammed Moorabool Council’s decision to demolish Bacchus Marsh’s old cream brick library building.
The move ends a four-year debate about the building’s future use, which community groups around the shire were vying to be housed in.
Councillors last week approved demolition of the 1968 building and depot shed to allow for future development of the civic precinct.
The council will also develop a policy about the possible sale of the land.
Bacchus Marsh Community Land Group spokesman John Spain said the decision marked a terrible end to a “poor consultation” effort by the council.
“In December they were talking to us about our ideas to create an art gallery there and they talked to the RSL about their wishes. It seemed positive.
“We feel very deflated now.”
The council estimated the building would cost $58,777 a year to maintain.
But Mr Spain said this wasn’t much compared to other buildings in the shire.
He said the numbers had “been brought out to shock and awe”.
The report said when any facility was replaced, the pre-existing structure should be demolished unless there was a compelling existing service demand.
It said the building was in poor condition, with pipes and roofing rusted out and major electrical work needed.
Mr Spain disagreed. “It currently is housing the [Young Street] kindergarten. So the building must be good.”
Bacchus Marsh Historical Society president Marlene Spurr said the building, originally built as a municipal office, was structurally sound and in excellent condition.
“It was built to go up another storey. It’s not an ugly building compared to the new one.”
But mayor Pat Griffin said necessary improvements to the building would be equivalent to a 1.5 per cent rate increase.
Mr Spain said several local groups would launch protests at the decision.
“Ultimately we want this motion rescinded.”
