Cultural centre upgrade to enhance facilities in multimillion redevelopment

CONSTRUCTION on the $17 million redevelopment of the Alstonville Cultural Centre is set to begin with a two-storey library to expand into a modern facility and major hub for 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 Ballina Shire 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.

Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the project will deliver long-term benefits for the community.

“This project will transform the Alstonville Cultural Centre into a modern, welcoming space that better meets the needs of our community now and into the future,” she said.

“Projects of this scale do take time and may cause some inconvenience, and we appreciate the community’s patience as construction progresses.

“In the end, this investment will deliver a modern, accessible facility the community can enjoy for decades to come.”

To enable construction to begin, Alstonville Library will temporarily relocate to Wollongbar Community Hall in May.

Cr Cadwallader said the temporary move is an important step in delivering the upgraded facility.

“The new library will be significantly larger and more flexible, providing improved spaces for reading, study, programs and community use,” she said.

“While there will be some short-term impacts to library services during the relocation, this is a key step in delivering a facility that will benefit the community for many years to come.

Alstonville Library will close at its current location on Saturday, 25 April, before reopening at Wollongbar Community Hall on Tuesday, 12 May.

The redevelopment is expected to be finished midway through next year.