Gunnedah's cultural precinct could get a whole new look if the community backs a new draft master plan.
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The unfunded proposed works, worth more than $13 million, include the demolition of the Smithurst Theatre to make way for a new double-storey library, multi-purpose community spaces, second cinema, courtyard and a new visitor information centre.
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The purpose behind the overhaul is to bring community spaces together into the one area and create a flow between the buildings for better access and usability.
If the community supports the proposed plans, Gunnedah Shire Council can use them as a base to apply for grant funding.
The master plan and concept plan have been developed by Dunn and Hillam Architects in consultation with the council and took into consideration feedback from stakeholders, the advisory group and residents.
Key focuses include creating community spaces for everyone; supporting cultural activity; constructing buildings that are both economical and sustainable; and introducing architecture that ties old and new together.
The existing library suffers from lack of space but the new proposed site would be more than twice the size and include a kids area and space for meetings, music lessons, study and the library's list of regular activities.
In the draft master plan, a new custom-built visitor information centre would front the precinct on Conadilly Street and connect to the precinct administration office
The existing centre is housed in the Mooki Room in The Civic Centre, alongside the Gunnedah Bicentennial Creative Arts Gallery, after a controversial relocation from South Street in 2014.
Another key feature of the plan is a courtyard accessible from Conadilly Street, which would provide a meeting place with seating, shade trees and a small water feature.
In The Civic Centre, a second cinema is being considered, which would would seat 42 people and have cinema-grade air conditioning.
Work would also be carried out in the town hall to repair the old stairwell and install a lift to improve access to the top floor, upgrade amenities, and create a new backstage area.
- View the master and concept plans at the council's administration building in Elgin Street or click here.
- Written submissions are due by 5pm on February 13.