COLIN Stewart Architects, it has been announced by ACT Minister for the Arts Joy Burch today, has won the tender to produce a feasibility study for the Kingston Arts Precinct.

Canberra architect Colin Stewart is a long time supporter of the arts in Canberra, having served on many boards and committees of local arts organisations.

Funding of $300,000 was allocated in the 2013-14 ACT Budget to undertake the study, which will include consultation with key stakeholders.

Ms Burch released the Kingston Section 49 Master Plan which, in line with the 2010 review of the arts by Peter Loxton & Associates , aims to further develop the Kingston Arts Precinct as a lively visual arts hub.

“The Kingston Foreshore is rapidly developing as an exciting precinct with homes, restaurants, cafes and wonderful arts facilities,” Ms Burch said, adding, “artsACT has been working closely with the Land Development Agency to ensure that development of the arts precinct fits within the wider redevelopment of the Kingston Foreshore.

The precinct, which includes the Canberra Glassworks, Megalo Print Studio + Gallery, the Fitters’ Workshop and the Old Bus Depot Markets, has not been without controversy, as the music and arts communities battled over usage of the Fitters’ Workshop.

According to Ms Burch, the planned study would provide the ACT Government with options for the development of the precinct and would also investigate how to maximise the site for arts and cultural activity.

Members of the public can view the Master Plan at lda.act.gov.au/kingston/masterplan

For more information on the Kingston Arts Precinct Feasibility Study visit www.arts.act.gov.au/