Feedback sought on new cultural hub in Melbourne's Footscray

Maribyrnong City Council is seeking feedback on plans to transform the existing Footscray Library and its adjoining car park into a cultural hub, featuring a large performing arts venue, an expanded library and a new park.

In a December 2025 communique, the council announced it had appointed Architectus as the lead design consultant for the project called Creative West. Architectus will work with the council and design partners Public Realm Lab and GLAS to develop the design.

Mayor of Maribyrnong City Council Mohamed Semra emphasised the development's importance for "revitalising Footscray" in the same release.

"Creative West is a key priority for our city, which will not only strengthen Footscray's reputation as a creative neighbourhood, but also support our current and future creative and cultural endeavours," said Semre.

"We look forward to working with Architectus to bring this dream to life - while bringing our community along on the journey," he said.

The federal government has allocated $5 million to support the project under the Urban Precincts and Partnerships Program, which the council has matched. These funds will be allocated to planning and detailed design.

A feedback portal has now launched, inviting the public to share their ideas on the types of amenities and design features they'd like to see included in the three proposed spaces. The council is also seeking examples of similar successful projects to guide the design process. Feedback will be accepted until 1 March 2026.