DA lodged for 'transformational' project

Published on 31 January 2020

Council remains committed to contributing $6 million toward the $20 million first stage of the Cultural Precinct and Library & Archive project.

A development application (DA) for the project was lodged yesterday, outlining plans which include the construction of a modern library and archive, a new car park, and a refurbishment of the iconic Town Hall facade.

Mayor Darriea Turley AM said the prospect of transforming a large section of the CBD at a cost of just $6 million to Council was exciting.

"Our plan at this stage is to commit $6 million obtained through commercial operations during the W2BH pipeline construction, and combine it with the generous donation from the BHP Billiton Foundation," she said.

"That would provide us with around $10 million in seed funding to go to the both the State and Federal Governments and seek support for the remaining project cost.

"Our discussions with the BHP Billiton Foundation around the project have been positive so far, and if they come on board I believe that seed funding will hold in very good stead.

"We'll be able to show that we're not just looking for a handout; we can match any funds dollar-for-dollar, and we have a meticulously planned project that is worthy of Government support.

"We made the decision to invest in project planning and design before seeking funding, and for the first time in a long time we can confidently say a project is truly 'shovel ready'."

Mayor Turley said she was confident the project would provide a significant boost to Argent Street, and completely change the way locals view the library and archives.

"I believe we have the richest history in Australia and some of the brightest minds within our community, we can't continue to provide a tiny facility that was built in the late 1950s,"

"On some days you can go to the library and find our knitting ladies, video gamers, and kids groups all sharing the same space and spilling into the walkway.

"Our residents deserve better, and this Council will advocate tirelessly for Government support to ensure the people of Broken Hill receive a new facility and precinct to allow them to learn, create, relax, and socialise in a modern setting.

"We're Australia's first Heritage Listed City so it's important we have a precinct that preserves and showcases our history and culture whilst offering modern amenities to locals and visitors alike."

The second stage of the project will involve refurbishing the police station and house on the current police site, and making them available for commercial operators.

A full list of the Cultural Precinct and Library & Archive project's features can be found here: https://www.brokenhill.nsw.gov.au/Council/Projects-and-Initiatives/Cultural-Precinct-and-Library-Archive