Published on Wednesday, 6 September 2023 at 5:53:35 PM
The Town has reached two significant milestones in the revitalisation of the Edward Millen Precinct, with Council’s approval of the final lease for Blackoak Capital Ventures to restore and redevelop the Edward Millen heritage buildings, and endorsement of the final plan to upgrade Edward Millen Park.
The Town can now set its sights towards construction, with works on the Park set to commence in early 2024 and the heritage restoration of the buildings due to begin in mid-2024.
“Edward Millen House is a much-loved jewel in Vic Park’s crown, and our community has been eagerly waiting to see this beautiful State heritage-listed building renovated and accessible for all. Realising the full potential of Edward Millen House has been a key priority for Victoria Park Council over many years, and we knew how important it was to secure the right opportunity to make this happen,” said Mayor Vernon.
“We have created a rare public-private partnership between the Town and Blackoak that will transform the entire Precinct into a vibrant family-friendly regional destination for locals and visitors alike, creating positive social, economic and environmental benefits for our community long into the future.”
Edward Millen House
The approved lease will result in Blackoak making a substantial investment in new facilities at no cost to the Town, including carrying out the restoration works to restore the heritage-listed buildings. They will also pay rates, taxes, outgoings, insurance and ongoing maintenance costs. Blackoak’s full redevelopment plans will be available for community comment later this year when their development application is advertised.
Edward Millen Park
The Town’s revitalisation of Edward Millen Park will transform the 4.7 hectare landscape into a vibrant public place, highlighted by the Mildred Creak Playground catering to the needs of neurodiverse children designed in collaboration with the Autism Association of WA. The playground pays homage to the site’s heritage as a centre for treatment and care of neurodiverse children from 1982-2001 and is named after pioneering doctor Mildred Creak who established the criteria used to diagnose Autism and was the first to propose that Autism is primarily caused by genetic factors.
The park will also feature an expansive amphitheatre and performance space, new pathways and seating, BBQ facilities, a nature play space, and accessible toilet block.
The detail design endorsed by Council last month reflects the work of the community reference group along with new features not seen in the initial concept, including a space for indigenous art to reflect the history of the area, enhanced experiences for neurodiverse park users, greater universal accessibility with a Changing Places facility, and reduced impact on existing trees. The Town has also incorporated its Urban Ecosystems approach, where key garden areas will be planted in partnership with the community via Community Planting days.
The Edward Millen Redevelopment Project is supported by $4 million in Australian Government funding, which will be used for the heritage restoration of the House.
For detailed information about the project, visit our dedicated project page below or contact the Town on 9311 8111 or admin@vicpark.wa.gov.au
Edward Millen Redevelopment Project
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