A historic building which was once a gatehouse for the Ballarat Botanical Gardens looks set to be returned to its original home.
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The first step in finding a solution to the long-running saga was taken by Ballarat City Council on Wednesday evening.
Councillors unanimously voted to approve a request made by the Friends of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens for the former Gatekeepers Cottage, at 1414 Gregory Street to be “relocated and refurbished in or near the vicinity of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens Fernery” as part of a multi-million dollar development underway at the site.
The move was made under the agreement there would be financial contributions made by both the FBBG and external parties.
Councillor Daniel Moloney said the council must now move fast to ensure the house receives permanent protection from Heritage Victoria and does not become a financial burden on ratepayers.
Mayor Samantha McIntosh said the house was a significant part of Ballarat’s history and could be used as an educational tool into the future.
Earlier this week, Sue Guthrie, whose grandparents bought the cottage on the site voiced her support of the relocation.
Melissa Cunningham
City of Ballarat and Social Affairs Reporter
City of Ballarat and Social Affairs Reporter
