Melbourne Polytechnic has issued new licences to Aradale tour operators after a safety inspection in August prompted an immediate shut-down.

Since then, Melbourne Polytechnic has worked with tour operators to identify potential external tour routes through the historic precinct and determine how it can safely provide public access.

The new arrangements will allow guided tours to access designated external areas of Aradale; no buildings will be open to the public as part of the initial arrangement.  

Melbourne Polytechnic chief executive Frances Coppolillo said at this stage Melbourne Polytechnic had not committed to any building remediation, scope of works or reopening timetable.

He said any proposals or estimates about works required for individual buildings would be finalised once a specialist building-survey process was complete.

“Some buildings may be identified as suitable for public access without further works, or with safety controls in place,” he said.

“Where this occurs, Melbourne Polytechnic will work with site users to enable access as soon as it is safe and practicable to do so.”

Mr Coppolillo said opening selected external areas was an important step for the Ararat community and local tourism operators. 

“We know how important access to Aradale is for community groups, tourism operators and local businesses, and we recognise the impact the restrictions have had,” he said.

“Since access was restricted, we have been working at pace to determine how safe access can be restored. 

“By working directly with tour operators, we have now identified a pathway for guided tours to access designated external areas of the precinct.”

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