Ten concepts were launched in the main hall of the building, with the public encouraged to provide feedback.

Communications manager for the Civic Hall site Ailsa Brackley du Bois said the concept plans were designed based in consultation with the community.

“It’s a holistic approach from what’s being said in the past, with an eye for the future,” she said. 

“Everything you see is from thoughts received from public input. 

“The architectural and urban concepts do not just incorporate the building but the whole site. The library has also been incorporated into the designs.” 

The public is encouraged to visit the exhibition on Saturday and provide comments on elements of the design they believe will best benefit the site.

“There has been hesitation and uncertainty, but we’re at a moment where the city has opened up the hall and given people an opportunity to come and have a look around and see what they want,” Ms Brackley du Bois said.

“Everyone in Ballarat needs to think about population growth, needs to think about the big picture and think about our children and what they will need when they reach adulthood. 

“Hopefully, this will enable people to visualise what’s possible.”

The concept designs will be open for feedback for three months before the architects create five new concepts to again be presented to the public.

The exhibition will be open on Saturday from 10am to 4pm, with entry via the Mair Street doors.

alicia.thomas@fairfaxmeda.com.au