Project information

Following a fire that caused irreparable damage to the building, BRC was closed with planning for the redevelopment accelerated to minimise impact to centre users and surrounding residents.

In 2018, Council completed a social infrastructure needs assessment that determined the building is ageing, lacks storage and contemporary design features, nonetheless the Centre continues to service more than 2,000 people per week. In 2020, Council commenced a community engagement process to gain a better understanding of how the centre is utilised and identify areas for improvement.

Feedback collected demonstrated that BRC is an important community asset that is highly valued for the diverse range of activities/programs and social connections it provides for all ages and abilities. This feedback resulted in Council resolving to redevelop the site and provide facilities that meet current standards and improve customer experience at the site.

The new facility will feature:

  • An extended gymnastics area with first floor viewing space
  • Childcare facilities
  • Dedicated pottery and art rooms
  • Multi-function spaces
  • Adult change facility
  • Extensive solar installation with on-site battery storage
  • Additional car parking
  • Landscaping improvements providing connectivity to Wilsons Reserve; and
  • Public toilet servicing users of Wilson Recreational Reserve.

    • In preparation for developing a masterplan, we have conducted a Social Infrastructure Needs Assessment for Brighton Rec that included broad community and stakeholder consultation.

    This report is used to assist Council in determining the appropriate mix of spaces and functions that could ultimately be provided within an upgraded or completely redeveloped and reconfigured facility.

    It also provides Council with an evidence base to assist in the future planning and re-design of the Centre based on the analysis of policy, population and demographic trends, community and stakeholder issues and aspirations and review of current spaces and programs offered at the facility.

    The main findings of the assessment were:

    • BRC is ageing and lacks storage and contemporary design features (e.g., natural light, flexible meeting rooms, waiting areas, spaces for socialisation, commercial space-cafe)
    • The building lacks storage and spaces for group administration
    • The site of the existing centre has minimal interface and connection and access with the neighbouring Wilson Reserve
    • Many of the existing spaces within the Centre are not fit-for-purpose and require significant set up and pack down between activities.

    The assessment can be viewed here and the engagement summary can be viewed here

    At the 5 April 2022, Special Meeting of Council, SJ Higgins Pty Ltd was awarded the contract to construct BRC. Site establishment is currently underway, with site establishment works commencing the week of 9 May 2022, with a construction period of approximately 12 months.

    It is expected that necessary demolition of the existing building will commence early June, residents immediately abutting the site will receive notification the week prior to the confirmed date.