Upgrades planned for ACT’s Gorman Arts Centre

A significant milestone was reached for the ACT’s Gorman Arts Centre upgrade project this week with the submission of the Development Application.

Gorman Arts Centre is an important hub of creativity and culture which turns 100 this year and is occupied by some of the ACT’s leading arts organisations, smaller arts groups, arts businesses and individual artists.

The planned renovations will provide critical building upgrades, including improving workshop/rehearsal spaces and enhancing accessibility, safety and the sustainability of the Centre.

The planned upgrades will also conserve heritage values and improve functionality at the complex, including fit for purpose, accessible and inclusive workspaces for artists as well as spaces for the community to experience art and arts activities.

The total funding allocated for the upgrades is $12.9 million, including $7.9 million from the ACT Government and $5 million from the Australian Government.

Consultation has been underway with residents to ensure the upgrades create a vibrant and connected arts hub for artists and the community and any disruption during construction is minimised.

The Development Application process will ensure all technical and heritage requirements will be met and provides a further opportunity for feedback during the public notification period.

Pending approval of the Development Application, construction works will start later in 2024. Early works, not requiring Development Approval, are scheduled to start in July 2024.

Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Tara Cheyne shared “these upgrades will ensure the Gorman Arts Centre is a more suitable, fit for purpose and accessible place of work for the artists and for the community to be able to engage with the cultural activities that take place there.

“There will be a phased approach to the upgrades to minimise disruption to the occupants and their visitors, students and audiences. We will assist with any temporary relocations on site as work progresses.”

Visit the artsACT website for more information about the project. Or click to review the Development Application. Comments about the application can be made until 24th May 2024.