Two proposals received for the future use of the former Meander Primary School site

Council is a step closer towards finding a new operator for the former Meander Primary School after the community came together this week to hear about two proposals.

Expressions of Interest for the future use of the primary school closed 16 February after being open for almost three months.

Council received two EOIs:

• Deloraine House – an extension of services that operate in Deloraine;
• Under the Tiers - to operate an outdoor education hub.

Meander Valley Mayor, Wayne Johnston, said an event this week hosted by Council brought the community together to discuss the proposals.

“Council held a ‘pitch’ session on Tuesday to allow those who have submitted a proposal the chance to hear directly from the community and also for all parties to ask questions for clarification,” Mayor Johnston said.

“This event was a great success with around 40 people attending and general feedback on the outcome was positive.

“Council wishes to thank both the community for attending and respondents for coming along to provide more details on their proposals.

“We want to particularly thank members of the Community Shortlisting Group who have volunteered to work together to shortlist proposals and make a recommendation to Council on the preferred option going forward.

“This group has an important job ahead as we recognise the former school has played a prominent role in the lives of many residents in Meander so it is crucial the community is happy with any new proposal for the site.”

Another pitch session just for members of the Community Shortlisting Group will be held on 8 March to enable respondents to answer any outstanding questions.

The Community Shortlisting Group will then meet on 22 March to assess the proposals and make a recommendation to Council.

Council will make a final decision in April and it is anticipated that a new proponent will begin operating at the site in July.