Priority Projects

Council has expanded its key priorities and projects for investment in order to plan and keep pace with the needs of a changing and growing population, with the release of an updated Priority Projects Prospectus. The latest version is Priority Projects - October 2023(PDF, 3MB).

Council has a proud history of fostering strong partnerships with state and federal governments to realise the community’s vision and deliver a wide range of essential services and new infrastructure projects.

CEO Bernie O’Sullivan said that the purpose of the prospectus is to share more about our shire with our funding partners, to highlight that Macedon Ranges is attractive for investment, and to make future planning and delivery of vital community projects a smoother and more efficient process.

“We are willing to discuss options for funding for any or all of these priority projects, and the bringing forward of timelines if necessary to meet the requirements of any state or federal funding.

“It is all about working together to bring new ideas to fruition, build a better community for all of our residents and our vast visitor population, and ensure the Macedon Ranges continues to be an exceptional place for locals and visitors alike for generations to come,” he said.

It includes:

Macedon Ranges Regional Sports Precinct – Stage 2: a 15-hectare regional park providing facilities for a range of sport and passive recreation activities to support healthy lifestyles and social connection, and help build strength and resilience in the community.

Daylesford to Hanging Rock and Kyneton Rail Trail: the development of a combination of rail trail and shared use trails, providing a unique trail experience that will attract between 4,460 and 6,690 annual visits by local residents and increased domestic and international visitors.

Woodend Community Centre project: transforming the Woodend Community Centre into a modern, flexible and sustainably designed centre that meets the identified needs of multiple community users and provides increased economic development and tourism opportunities.

Kyneton Town Hall Reimagined: highlighting an historically and culturally significant building, this project will deliver an accessible and appropriately designed space, capable of hosting significant events and performances, attracting visitors from outside the region to attend high class acts in a high class venue.

New Nature Reserve – Barrm Birrm: The purpose of this project is to resolve a historic planning decision that creates conflict and risk for the environment and adjacent Riddells Creek community, via the public acquisition of a piece of beautiful bushland. 

An additional eight priority projects include:

  • Lancefield Kindergarten and Maternal and Child Health Centre
  • Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
  • Digital Connectivity and Communications
  • Affordable Housing
  • Mental Health Service for Young People
  • Healthy Landscapes Private Land Conservation Program; and  
  • Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study (East of the Shire)