Cultural and Civic Space Site to be Cleared

Permission for the demolition of existing buildings on the site of the new Cultural and Civic Space has been approved by Council.

“I cannot wait to start to see the new Cultural and Civic Space start to take shape,” said Coffs Harbour Mayor, Councillor Denise Knight. “This unique building is a huge opportunity for the future of the city and the region.”

The assessment of the Development Application for the demolition was undertaken by Armidale Regional Council as Coffs Harbour City Council is the applicant. The site covers 23-31 Gordon Street in the CBD.

Following a series of tender processes, Council has also approved the appointment of consultants to manage the construction, design finalisation and costs of the Cultural and Civic Space Project. These are:

Project Manager (tender awarded to Turner and Townsend Thinc Pty Ltd) – to manage the key project consultants – including the architect and their design team, cost manager and builder – to Council’s approved budget and time frames. Head Design Consultant (tender awarded to BVN Architecture Pty Ltd) – to create and implement architectural and interior design for the new building, manage the design team and incorporate the builder’s input in their role as design consultant. Cost Manager (tender awarded to Altus Group Cost Management Pty Ltd) – to continuously monitor and manage the project’s finances and provide feedback to Council so that decisions can be made regarding project costs.

The new building will include a Regional Gallery, Central Library, Regional Museum, multipurpose meeting rooms – one of which that can also be used as the Council Chamber for meetings – a co-working space, shop, café, the Family History Group, function space, the Council customer service area, Council offices and basement car parking.

It will create a vibrant cultural and civic precinct in the heart of Coffs Harbour and will be accessible, inclusive, attractive and welcoming to all.

The new Cultural and Civic Space will:

provide access to cultural opportunities and facilities that are not currently available in Coffs Harbour; create a cultural precinct and cultural tourism opportunities; provide lifelong learning, educational opportunities and improved literacy; increase social wellbeing and connections; bring economic benefit to the region; and help develop a vibrant and active central business district and city centre.

An independent economic assessment has identified a host of benefits to the CBD including financial gains over a 30-year period totalling $57m with 31 on-going jobs. When in operation, it is projected to contribute $2m annually to the Gross Regional Product through support of local businesses.