Library set for demolition

THE rundown old Naracoorte Library building in DeGaris Place will be demolished in October.

Asbestos was removed from the dilapidated building shortly after Naracoorte Lucindale Council authorised its demolition in July.

Local contractors Henschke Industries will carry out the demolition works and community members will start to see action in the area after the October long weekend.

Temporary fencing will be erected around the site on October 8-9 and the remainder of the week will see the removal of fixtures and paving.

On Saturday October 11, Henschke Industries will move an excavator to the site after lunchtime when there is generally less traffic in the area.

Demolition will begin on Monday 13 October and should be completed by Friday 17 October if everything goes to plan.

Following demolition, minor landscaping with a lawn area as well as rubble hardstand – and beautification of the old site – will be carried out to allow for the area to be used for activities such as food vans and pop-up shops in the interim with a view to exploring future development opportunities for the site down the track.

This will involve future engagement with the community about the entire DeGaris Place precinct to the east of the Town Square – incorporating the old Library site and Council administration building and Chambers.

It’s envisaged that any future development will be undertaken over time and in stages.

The old Library building has been vacant since 2016 when it became unfit for purpose.

The Naracoorte Library was temporarily re-located to 165 Smith Street before moving into a purpose-built facility in the Naracoorte Library + Town Hall precinct at 93-95 Smith Street in February 2022.