Following severe fire damage, the former building at 91A Wakefield Gardens was demolished and the site has been cleared and made safe.

Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas about the future of this site.

Community feedback showed strong support for returning the site to a welcoming public space that reflects its history and connection to the broader Wakefield Gardens precinct.

Planning is now underway to reconnect the site with the Wakefield Gardens precinct through landscaping and open space improvements to create a place for the community to enjoy while respecting its cultural and historical significance.

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For project updates, important announcements and progress reports, visit the project website or email communityengagement@act.gov.au

The ACT Government has been working with the community to shape the future of the site at 91A Wakefield Gardens, Ainslie.

The site has a long history of serving the Canberra community. Over the years it has supported a range of health and community services, including the Canberra Mothercraft Society (1920s–1990s), Winnunga Nimmityjah Aboriginal Health Services (1998–2005), and as a Child Health Clinic in the 1950s and 60s.

A fire caused significant damage to the unoccupied building. The ACT Government took steps to secure the site and keep the community safe.

Investigations confirmed there were no health risks to the surrounding community. The site remained securely fenced while planning and demolition works were completed.

Although the damaged building itself was not heritage listed, the surrounding Wakefield Gardens precinct has recognised heritage values. Care was taken throughout demolition and planning to protect and respect those values.

The damaged building was demolished in 2026 and the site was made safe.

In 2025, the ACT Government asked the the community to help shape the future of the site.

People shared their ideas through an online survey, pop-ups sessions at Ainslie shops and conversations with project representatives.

These activities gave community members an opportunity to ask questions, share local knowledge and tell us what matters most to them.

More than 380 people shared their views through an online survey, pop-up sessions, and meetings with key stakeholders.

Community feedback highlighted the importance of:

• respecting the site's history and heritage
• creating and inclusive community space
• improving green space
• supporting sustainability
• recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and connection to place.

This feedback is helping guide planning for the site's future and ensuring the space reflects the needs and values of our community.

Read the What We Heard report.