While early proposals to turn the historic Fortuna Villa Estate into a public arts precinct (similar to Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent) gained community traction, the site has transitioned. The iconic gold rush mansion and grounds at 22 Chum Street is now a private residence and exclusive community space for the neighboring residential development, offering public functions and high teas by booking. The Tomkinson Group gained approval in 2016 to provide key town planning, engineering, surveying and project management services for the redevelopment of Bendigo’s iconic Fortuna Villa. They have been involved in consultation with Heritage Victoria, Council Planning, Heritage & Engineering, Environmental, Landscape and Heritage consultants all working cooperatively towards a sensitive urban renewal residential design for the site. The planning permit application was approved in 2016 and construction is set to start in late 2017. The residential development is great opportunity for the proposed re-invigoration of Bendigo’s historic “Fortuna Villa”, and Tomkinson Group is proud to be an integral part of the process. The concept consists of 79 high end architecturally designed townhouses, built to subtly enjoy the beautiful views and acres of parkland once part of the mansion estate. The exciting 55 million dollar project proposed for the mansion grounds will sensitively allow for a unique medium density housing development, diversifying the housing options available in Bendigo, whilst maintaining the integrity of the historic Villa and a portion of the grounds, which will be open to the public for high teas and functions. The project is not without its challenges however. The topography is steep, the soil has been contaminated and contains fill from mining days, and the historic aspects of the property must be treated with a great deal of care, however the positives far outweigh the negatives. Together with the architect and client we have resolved these issues to allow this exciting development to proceed. The site has an idyllic central city location, fantastic views of both Bendigo and the Villa itself, and the established grounds provide an attractive aesthetic basis for the proposed residences.Fortuna - Villa Proposed Arts Precinct Concept This item contains the following documents: 11217.72a Sketch of the proposed Arts Precinct off Chum Street 11217.72b 28 pages of proposed sketches and designs 11217.72c Four A3 size plans of Fortunanon-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, fortuna proposed arts precinct, tomkinson fortuna villa project

Villa Fortuna is described as having unprecedented local historical importance and whimsical architecture, making it a cultural asset for Bendigo. Saving the villa requires a bold and visionary individual or group willing to take on the challenges of restoration, including significant financial and logistical commitments. If restored, the villa could become a major attraction, hosting events, tours, and community activities that would benefit the local economy and tourism sector. The main obstacle is not whether the villa should be saved, but what sacrifices—financial and otherwise—are necessary to achieve this goal. The Villa Fortuna Action Group has developed a plan for the site, but more stakeholders may become involved. The Department of Defence, current owner, is proceeding cautiously with no urgency to sell. The upcoming public opening is seen as a potential turning point, with the document stressing that Bendigo cannot afford to lose this historic property, regardless of the cost. Mayor Kevin Gibbins opposes transforming Fortuna Villa into an arts and cultural precinct, as proposed by the Villa Fortuna Action Group. He believes the property should address local needs such as aged care, dementia, disabilities, and respite for carers. Gibbins emphasizes these are his personal views, not official council policy. Gibbins is concerned about the council's ability to finance the maintenance of the large property, even if acquired at no cost. He questions the justification for using ratepayers' money for new arts projects when there is already a masterplan for the existing art gallery that requires significant funding and staged development. The Villa Fortuna Action Group is the only organization with a public proposal for the site, aiming to create an arts and cultural precinct similar to Melbourne's Abbotsford Convent.The group plans to present its vision to newly elected councillors. The Department of Defence is preparing Fortuna Villa in Bendigo for sale, likely early next year. A tentative timeline suggests most site assessments will be drafted by Christmas, with finalization expected in the new year. Thorough assessments are underway to understand the site's characteristics, including heritage and environmental aspects.These assessments are detailed and time-consuming to ensure accuracy and completeness. An open day for the public and media is part of the ongoing community consultation process. Additional consultation activities are planned but not yet finalized. The City of Greater Bendigo is a key stakeholder in the disposal process and will receive relevant site information.The property has not yet been valued.Fortuna Article - "Great Bravery is now required for villa" - The Bendigo Advertiser Friday Dec 05 2008 by Nino Bucci This item contains the following: 11217.24a Colour Photo of the stained glass window on the staircase 11217.24b Colour Photo of David French outside the villa 11217.24c Colour Photo of the Grand conservatory 11217.24d Part of page 14 - Article "Great Bravery is now required for villa" 11217.24e Part of page 14 - Article "Mayor defends his view for the site" 11217.24f Part of page 14 - Article "Fortuna's future is one step closer"non-fictionbendigo, fortuna, george lansell, villa fortuna action group, myor of bendigo kevin gibbins