We are building a new Early Years Hub on Albert Street, Brunswick!
The Brunswick Early Years Hub is a purpose-built facility that will provide
- Maternal and Child Health Services
- Child Care Services including 3yr and 4yr Kindergarten
- A playgroup space and programs
All under the one roof located at 346 Albert Street, Brunswick.
We are proposing to relocate some existing services to the Hub, which you can see on the map below.
Why do we need a new Early Years Hub?
The Merri-bek population is growing. In 2020 we did an analysis of future demand for kindergarten programs across Merri-bek as part of our Kindergarten Infrastructure and Services Plan. It forecasted a shortfall of 313 places for 3- and 4-year-old old kinder by 2029 in Brunswick and Brunswick East.
Why are we relocating other services?
With the permission of Moreland Child Care Centres Inc (MCCC), who operate the Tinning Street service and own and operate the Mitchell Street service, Council engaged an independent contractor to undertake a building and structural assessment of the Mitchell and Tinning Street facilities.
The assessment identified structural compliance issues, excessive estimated maintenance costs and forecast the buildings would not be usable in 5 years without significant expense.
The facilities due to their age, condition, size and the ongoing maintenance or renewal of these sites is not feasible or cost effective. Therefore Council, with agreement from Moreland Child Care Centres Inc will relocate services from the Council owned Tinning Street centre into the new hub. The future of the Mitchell Street centre is yet to be determined.
When will the Hub be built?
At this time we are still in the pre-planning stage of the new Hub. In November 2023 we will take the concept to Council for approval. Once approved we will engage architects, undertake more detailed community consultation and prepare detailed design plans for review. We think we'll be ready to start construction in early 2025 but we will make sure to update you as we know more.
Join the conversation
This engagement is now closed. Thanks to all who participated! Your comments will be used to help us plan the project and create the best outcomes for users and future users of the services at the Hub.
How can the community influence this project?
What can be influenced?
- Internal Design Suggestions
- External Design Suggestions
- Services to be provided within the building.
What can't be changed?
- Location of the Brunswick Early Years Hub.
What happens next?
We will collect and review all the feedback we have received and present our findings back to Council at the November Council Meeting.
