Centre rises from the ashes

Published on 21 June 2019

A new $4.5 million Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre has risen from the ashes.

Blacktown City Mayor Stephen Bali MP said the new centre which can seat 200 people will be a popular venue for family reunions, weddings, birthday parties and community activities.

“The new centre is inspired by the beautiful surroundings of the Woodcroft Reserve with the soaring roof and brickwork acknowledging the site’s links to water and the former brick quarry,” Mayor Bali said.

“The wonderful new purpose-built building also has a commercial kitchen and a multipurpose meeting room.”

The old Woodcroft Neighbourhood Centre was tragically destroyed in January 2015 in a fire that was later found to have been deliberately lit.

“Following the fire, Council committed to building a new centre that showed excellence in design and that would become a community hub for a full range of groups and activities,” Mayor Bali said.

Council sought and received valuable feedback from the community that strongly influenced the final design.

Mayor Bali acknowledged the contributions by Council staff, Westbury Constructions, CarterWilliamson Architects, and AECOM Cost Consultants in the design and construction of the new centre.

The official opening was held on Saturday 15 June, bringing together residents, Council and contractors to enjoy a day of live performances, displays and ECO walks at the new centre all in the beautiful surroundings of Woodcroft Reserve.