Construction starts on $18 million cultural centre redevelopment

CONSTRUCTION has officially begun on the $18 million upgrade of the Alstonville Cultural Centre, with the redevelopment to deliver expanded library services and upgraded sporting facilities.

Representatives from Ballina Shire Council and project partners marked the occasion with a sod turning ceremony on Tuesday, 26 May.

The work is expected to be finished midway through next year with an expanded library, upgraded community spaces, improved accessibility and modern amenities designed to better support the growing needs of the community.

The new library will include dedicated children’s areas, study and digital learning spaces, meeting rooms, modern amenities and flexible layouts as part of the council’s design plan.

The upgrade also includes enhanced community facilities, with a larger sports court, airconditioned multi-purpose spaces, upgraded amenities, and a new entrance and foyer.

Ballina mayor Sharon Cadwallader said strong progress already taking place onsite.

“It’s fantastic to see this important community project moving ahead and to officially celebrate the next stage of works,” she said.

“Council is proud to be delivering a project that reflects the needs of our growing community and the importance of investing in quality community infrastructure.”

“This redevelopment represents a significant investment in the future of the plateau communities and the services and spaces they will enjoy for generations to come.”

Council facilities manager, Kerry Condon said works were progressing well onsite, with Hutchinson Builders entering the next phase of demolition and preparation works, with visible activity increasing over the coming weeks.

“Over the coming weeks, the community will start to see significant activity taking place as sections of the roof and walls are removed to prepare the building for the next stage.” he said

“While parts of the existing structure are being removed, the building’s steel framework will remain and be incorporated into the upgraded facility, which is something many people may not realise.”

“Before it can be reused, the steel structure will undergo assessment to ensure it meets current compliance standards and is ready to support the building well into the future.

“These important behind-the-scenes works are laying the foundation for the major construction works ahead, and it is exciting to now be at the point where the community will begin to see the transformation take shape.”