One of Mount Gambier’s historic inner-city complexes is set to undergo a million-dollar upgrading after years of sitting vacant.

Following various initial upgrades to the Oatmill Complex site, the $1m Public Realm works of The Mills redevelopment will commence this month.

Preparatory works have been completed in the background over the past 12 months meaning all is now in readiness for the new works kicking off with the Percy Street forecourt.

A new 300m2 pavilion structure with translucent roofing and interactive lighting will be added to the forecourt along with a new undercover outdoor dining area for use by the lower level of The Oatmeal Factory (formerly CJ’s Steakhouse).

A new hospitality venue is earmarked to take occupation of this space following the completion of works in April.

Oatmill Holdings co-owner Mark Balnaves said it was three years since ownership of the State Heritage listed precinct changed hands, and he was excited to see the group’s vision start to really take shape.

“We are committed to investment in the regions and believe Mount Gambier is poised to continue its recent strong economic growth after major infrastructure upgrades at the airport and in civic facilities,” he said.

“We have received great support from council and look forward to welcoming new businesses into the precinct in areas like hospitality and retail as well as providing an historic option for commercial office space.

“With a master plan approved we can move quickly to tailor internal fit-outs to individual tenant requirements.”

After working on the complex project for more than two years, the project’s lead architect Dino Vrynios of Das Studio is looking forward to see the precinct come back to life.

“The history of the site and its incredible buildings have such an immense value – it has been tremendous privilege for our team to reimagine and reactivate The Mills,” he said.

“We have adopted a ‘light touch’ approach wherever possible to ensure any interventions are in keeping with the existing context and endeavoured to provide improved accessibility and protection from the weather for all year-round use.”

The project underwent a rigorous approvals process with the project’s proponents, expert heritage consultants and council staff working together closely to create an environment for mutual success between all stakeholders.

Mount Gambier Mayor Lynette Martin has welcomed news the site will be redeveloped.

“It is pleasing to see such a significant investment in this project,” she said.

“It is exciting to see this investment and to add new elements to this important historical site in our city.

“Creating new public spaces shows what can happen with creativity and a willingness to work sensitively through sometimes complex heritage issues.

“It is also a measure of confidence in our local economy and community, building on recent investments such as City of Mount Gambier’s Wulanda Recreation and Convention Centre and other local developments.”

Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell shared similar sentiments and said he looked forward to seeing “this important piece of Mount Gambier’s history be given some long overdue attention”.

“The Oatmill precinct holds an important place in Mount Gambier’s history and seeing it come to life as The Mills continues that story,” he said.

“With significant investment and business potential, the precinct will add to Mount Gambier’s reputation as a thriving regional city, positioning our city strongly for the future.”

Mr Vrynios said Stage 2 works will see the creation of Mills Lane, a raised platform walkway that will connect Mitchell Street through to the Hedley Street carpark.

“Two of the main considerations for this project have been working sensitively with the heritage fabric and modifying the various levels across the site to provide access to upper levels of buildings as well as compliant accessibility to external areas generally,” he said.

“By adopting a raised walkway, we have overcome these constraints and created a fully accessible site, but also enabled the introduction of planting and greenery throughout Mills Lane to provide a new amenity to the precinct.

Mr Balnaves said the new laneway would create a sense of vibrancy.

“We see this laneway becoming a bustling hub of activity with a variety of offerings for the community and business on site,” he said.

Contractor Kennett Builders was successful with the submission to be the builder for the project and are finalising preparations before major construction works start later this month.

The company’s executive director James Kennett said he was looking forward to the project.

“This vital re-invigoration of the Oatmill precinct is a project of immeasurable value to Mount Gambier and one that we are proud to be part of,” he said.

“We see it as yet more progress for the Mount Gambier CBD and will play a big part in returning vitality to this area.”

A website has been launched ahead of Stage 1 commencing to share information with the community about the project and the history of the site.

Any interested parties can also download information packs about the spaces available and register their interest for a walkthrough.