Castle getting a makeover

By Nathan Johnston
CONSTRUCTION work on the $1.3 million upgrade to The Castle in Hemmings Park has started and is set for completion in April.
The Castle, officially known as Armytage Hall, will be transformed into a music venue for young people.
The hall will be renovated to include a raised stage and DJ area, a VIP lounge, a main hall for more than 300 people and technical upgrades to minimise noise levels outside.
The works will also include the redevelopment of a second building connected to the hall.
It will include an acoustic performance area for 60 people, a lounge area, canteen, and an amenities and service area.
Representatives of the Muso Network, Youth Services and The City of Greater Dandenong have worked with the architects to design the new look hall.
Cr Clare O’Neil said the project would make Hemmings Park the complete youth precinct, tying in with the skatepark, a new BMX track and safer public toilets.
“This is another excellent project in Hemmings Park. Things are really coming together at the park and I’ll be really excited when it’s all finished.”
The council committed $1 million to the work in this year’s budget, and secured $286,000 of State Government funding.
The council awarded the contracts for the works at its meeting on Monday night.