Expression of Interest: Lease of Burnley Cottage, 150 Yarra Boulevard, Richmond

We are seeking expressions of interest to lease Burnley Cottage, and partner with council to deliver community benefit in a high-visibility, well-located facility.

Burnley Cottage, located in the heart of Richmond, is a heritage-listed property with strong ties to the area’s history. Nestled near the Yarra River and Burnley Gardens, it is a prominent and well-loved local landmark.

Yarra City Council is now inviting expressions of interest from community groups, businesses, or individuals interested in leasing Burnley Cottage. We’re looking for a tenant who can help transform the site into a vibrant community hub.

Preferred uses and site activation requirements

The successful applicant will use the Burnley Cottage as a mixed-use community hub and incorporate the following services:

• A café or light food and beverage offering
• A flexible space for community services such as:
• Arts and cultural programs;
• Health, wellness and recreational activities; or
• Support services, like language classes, social programs, or educational initiatives
• Features that celebrate and preserve the history of Burnley Cottage and its surrounds.

Alternative or partial proposals for the activation of the site will be considered; however, preference will be given to proposals that align with the preferred use outlined above.

Evaluation criteria

• Commitment to heritage and environmental conservation;
• Range and quality of community services provided;
• Effective use of space and mixed use by various groups;
• Capital and operational investment; and
• Financial capacity and lease considerations.

How to apply

We encourage all interested parties to carefully review the EOI documentation [ PDF, 516.04 KB] , including the application form, and to consider how their proposal will contribute to activating this community asset for broad public benefit.

Applications

Please email the completed EOI application form [ PDF, 516.04 KB] , along with all supporting documents to yarrapropertyservices@yarracity.vic.gov.au

Site inspections

To schedule a site visit, please contact Yarra Property Services at yarrapropertyservices@yarracity.vic.gov.au

Enquiries

For any enquiries about this EOI please email Yarra Property Services at yarrapropertyservices@yarracity.vic.gov.au

Late submissions

EOI submissions received after the deadline will be deemed invalid and will not be considered.