Creating a Better RPAC program to continue with forecourt redevelopment

Refurbishment works at the Redland Performing Arts Centre (RPAC) are set to continue over the coming year with a major redevelopment of the venue’s forecourt.

The upgrade, which is part of Redland City Council’s Creating a Better RPAC program, has been made possible through a $3 million funding commitment in the 2024–2025 Budget.

Mayor Jos Mitchell said the forecourt redevelopment would complement the improvements delivered to the cul-de-sac and drop-off areas during the previous refurbishment stage.

“The forecourt upgrade will enhance the visitor experience for the more than 60,000 people who attend performances and events at RPAC annually,” the Mayor said.

“Improvements planned for the area include permanent seating, a small performance deck, better lighting, a new undercover area, and improved accessibility.

“The redevelopment will also deliver improvements to the main entrance, further enhancing the experience for visitors.

“We are excited to begin the tender process for this redevelopment in the coming months and expect major works to begin on site in early 2025, weather permitting.”

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said the improvements being delivered through the Creating a Better RPAC program would provide a major boost for local artists and performers.

“RPAC is our major arts and culture hub, providing a place to showcase the talents of local artists and community organisations, and attracting events from all over Australia and beyond,” Cr Mitchell said.

“Council is proud to have delivered a $3 million funding package in the 2024–2025 Budget for the delivery of the forecourt redevelopment.

“This investment was part of a $4.54 million commitment to community and cultural development this financial year.

“The forecourt redevelopment also supports the Cleveland Revitalisation Program, which has the objective of growing our economy through various activations and initiatives that make our places more attractive and safe, and which improves the experience for locals and visitors alike.”

Detailed designs for the forecourt redevelopment project have been prepared by local project management and engineering consultancy company xburo and Anna O’Gorman Architects using funding previously secured through the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.

This funding enabled Council to deliver the RPAC cul-de-sac and drop off area upgrade in the 2023–2024 financial year.

Improvements delivered during this stage included an upgraded footpath, new garden beds with feature lighting, two extra disability car parking spaces, road resurfacing, and lighting upgrades.

The forecourt redevelopment project will move to tender process over the coming months, with the successful contractors to be appointed before the end of 2024.

The major works are then anticipated to commence in early January 2025 and are expected to take 3–4 months to complete.

Redland City Council and RPAC will work closely with contractors and suppliers to ensure both safe and comfortable access to the venue during the redevelopment process.

Some disruption to services may occur, and RPAC will stay in contact with customers if there are any changes to the program, or guest access, for upcoming performances.

Updates on the project will be made available on the RPAC website as works begin.

Redland City Council provides a suite of services to 166,873 residents and more than 63,000 residential households across Redlands Coast. Our naturally wonderful city on Quandamooka Country is home to more than 335 kilometres of coastline, six island communities and 12 mainland suburbs.