Wyndham Cultural Centre Upgrade

What is happening?

Wyndham City is investing in an upgrade of the Wyndham Cultural Centre.  

Construction will begin in the second half of 2024, and there will be some service disruption to Wyndham Cultural Centre operations while works are undertaken:

• Wyndham Art Gallery is now closed to the public
• Wyndham Cultural Centre Theatre will be closed to the public from 20 May 2024
• Werribee Library will temporarily close to the public from 2 September until early 2025 while critical works are underway

What work is being done as part of the upgrade?

The upgrade will relocate and revamp the gallery spaces, provide a new collection space for the visual art collection, modernise and refresh the bar, foyer and amenities, and provide a direct entry into Werribee Library from Wedge Street.

While these spaces are being upgraded, Wyndham City will also carry out renewal works to the Wyndham Cultural Centre theatre, including installation of a hearing loop.

I thought there was meant to be a big upgrade to the theatre…

While the theatre upgrade may not be as extensive as initially anticipated, the project aims to enhance the overall experience for the community, including exhibiting artists, audiences and community users of the facility.

The focus is on improving various aspects of the venue, including gallery spaces, amenities, library access and compliance works to the theatre space.

Why will the library be closed for such an extended period?

There were always going to be planned closures of Werribee Library as part of the Wyndham Cultural Centre upgrade.

However, once work on the upgrade began in July, it was clear that dust, noise and other disruptions from the construction site had a bigger impact on Werribee Library operations than first anticipated. Additionally, it was discovered that the electricity and other services for the library and Wyndham Cultural Centre are inextricably linked, which has already resulted in power and internet outages for the library since works began.

As a result, Werribee Library will be closed for longer than originally anticipated for the safety of the public and library staff, and to allow the Cultural Centre upgrade to occur smoothly and efficiently, without frequent disruptions to Werribee Library operations, staff and users.

Can I still use the returns chute at Werribee Library?

The returns chute at Werribee Library will be closed to the public after Saturday 23 November for the duration of the Werribee Library closure as works on the Wyndham Cultural Centre progress.

You can return items at any other Wyndham library. Scan the QR code or visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/libraries for other Wyndham library locations and hours.

We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience while we deliver this important upgrade.

Where is the next closest library?

Hoppers Crossing Library at Pacific Werribee is the next closest library.  Visit www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/libraries for other Wyndham library locations and hours.

You can also access a huge range of eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, movies, TV shows and other online resources for free through Wyndham’s eLibrary: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/services/libraries/elibrary/wyndhams-elibrary

What has happened to the shuttle bus/maxi taxi?

The free shuttle service operating between Werribee Library and Hoppers Crossing Library at Pacific Werribee will be discontinued after Saturday 16 November due to low patronage numbers.

Is the Wyndham Art Prize happening this year?

The 2024 Wyndham Art Prize and exhibition will not be taking place due to the availability of space for exhibition. It will resume in 2025.

When will works be completed/ when will the Wyndham Cultural Centre reopen?

Work on the Wyndham Cultural Centre upgrade will commence in the second half of 2024, with project completion anticipated to be mid-2025. Any updates to this timeline can be found at: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/project/wyndham-cultural-centre-upgrade

When is the Wyndham Cultural Centre taking bookings for 2025? Is the EOI available yet?

We won’t be opening bookings through an Expression of Interest (EOI) process just yet. Our construction timeline is still in progress, and essential works are underway. Rest assured that we’ll communicate with previous hirers via email once EOIs become available. Additionally, please stay tuned to our website and social channels for updates.

How can I still purchase tickets in person?

If you’d like to purchase tickets in person, you can visit the Encore Events Centre located at 80 Derrimut Road, Hoppers Crossing.

Their team will be happy to assist you with any inquiries or ticket purchases. Feel free to reach out to them at 1300 156 557 or via email at encore@wyndham.vic.gov.au  

As always, you can still book online and find event information here www.wyncc.com.au

What impact have these works had on parking availability?

Some parking spaces at the Wyndham Cultural Centre car park are temporarily closed to the public while construction is underway however, most spaces remain available to the public throughout construction.

If you’re struggling to find a park at the Wyndham Cultural Centre car park, you can also park at the off-street car park on the corner of Werribee and Watton Streets, which has 180 all-day free spots. Additionally, there are several car parks along Watton Street, Comben Drive, Synnot Street, and surrounding areas. Please be mindful of time limits to avoid receiving an infringement.

Where can I find more information?

For more information and project updates, go to https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/project/wyndham-cultural-centre-upgrade  

For more information on the Werribee Library temporary closure, visit: https://www.wyndham.vic.gov.au/werribee-library