Wallarobba Arts Precinct Development

Project typePrecinct upgrade

Decision to Submit a Development Application for Wallarobba Marks Significant Step Towards a New Arts Precinct for Hornsby

The Wallarobba Arts Precinct project will transform the Wallarobba and Willow Park site into one of Hornsby Shire's most exciting creative destinations, bringing together arts, heritage, play and community in a vibrant and welcoming precinct for people of all ages.

Designed as a hub for creativity, connection and discovery, the precinct will expand opportunities for artistic expression, learning, cultural participation and creative collaboration. Visitors will be able to explore inspiring exhibition spaces, participate in workshops and classes, connect with local artists and makers and enjoy dynamic public spaces that celebrate imagination and community life.

The project includes the restoration and adaptive reuse of the heritage listed Wallarobba House, refurbishment of existing buildings, construction of contemporary arts and creative spaces, enhanced accessibility across the site and significant improvements to the surrounding open space. A key feature will be the transformation of Willow Park playground into an imaginative play environment that encourages adventure, creativity and exploration.

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For decades, the Wallarobba Arts & Cultural Centre has been a cherished community asset, nurturing local artists, arts organisations and community groups. As demand for cultural activities continues to grow across the Shire, the precinct is evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of creatives, learners and visitors.

The redevelopment will create a contemporary arts destination where creativity can thrive. Flexible and inclusive spaces will support exhibitions, performances, workshops, community events and creative enterprise, while preserving and celebrating the site's rich heritage. Wallarobba House will continue to be a treasured local landmark, brought to life through new experiences, expanded programming and greater community access.

Guided by Council's Community & Cultural Facilities Strategic Plan(PDF, 6MB), Arts & Cultural Plan(PDF, 4MB) and Play Plan(PDF, 18MB), the project represents a long-term investment in the vibrant, creative and connected Hornsby Shire. The vision has been shaped by engagement with local artists, arts organisations, venue users, community stakeholders and industry representatives, ensuring the precinct reflects community aspirations and future opportunities.

To bring this vision to life, some existing facilities will need to close or temporarily relocate during construction. Subject to approvals, construction is anticipated to commence in 2027 and continue for approximately 18 months. Throughout the project, Council will provide regular updates on milestones, temporary relocations and opportunities for the community to follow the transformation as the new Wallarobba Arts Precinct takes shape.

Council is keen to hear your thoughts on the project. To provide feedback or if you would like any further information please contact Cheryl Etheridge via email below.

Supporting project documentation

Proposed Site Plan for the Wallarobba Arts Precinct(PDF, 2MB)

Site Plan - Presentation

Ground Plan - Presentation

First Floor Plan - Presentation

Contact

Cheryl Etheridge - Manager, Library and Community Services
Email: cetheridge@hornsby.nsw.gov.au

Location

25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby 2077 View Map

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What we've done so far

2008
Adoption of Cultural Plan noting that opportunities exist within the Willow Park Community Centre to realign community use to support the production of visual art products.
2009
Council resolved that the Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre be developed at the existing site of the Willow Park Community Centre Homestead.
2011
Stage 1 works to enable the adaptive re-use of Wallarobba homestead for arts uses completed and the centre officially opened. Additional funds raised from the sale of another Council property were restricted for a future Stage 2 of the Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre project.
2015
Community & Cultural Facilities Strategic Plan adopted recommended moving multipurpose community uses out of the Wallarobba facilities to enable the site to be master planned and community arts spaces and uses to be expanded.
2019
The Wallarobba project has been included in Council’s Long Term Financial Plan since 2019.

2021
Update to the Community & Cultural Facilities Plan(PDF, 6MB) informing future development and direction for Councils Community & Cultural Facilities. The 2015 recommendation to move multipurpose community uses out of the Wallarobba facilities to enable the site to be master planned and community arts spaces and uses expanded was retained. The Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre was nominated as an ‘art making’ space for the Hornsby LGA.
2024
Adoption of the Arts & Cultural Plan(PDF, 4MB) outlining the need for dedicated Arts & Culture Facilities including short term actions to develop a master plan for the Wallarobba site to optimise its benefit to the community.
March 2024
Project commencement with Internal Draft Design Brief developed.
May 2024
Stakeholder engagement including with Council's Arts and Cultural Advisory Group, other arts/cultural groups, Youth and Site User Stakeholder Consultation to inform overall future Design Brief.
June 2024 to November 2025
Ongoing refinement of Precinct Design to support overall Arts & Culture use and creative play within Willow Park.
December 2025
Engagement with Councils Arts and Cultural Advisory Group, and Visual Arts Stakeholders seeking feedback on design and adaptive uses onsite.
February 2026 and ongoing
Impacted hirer engagement to provide options for relocation during construction stages.
August 2026
Preparation of documentation for Development Application & Council approval to submit Development Application.