The Naracoorte Library redevelopment is now set to progress, with the Naracoorte Lucindale Council purchasing the Naracoorte Herald Building at 93 Smith Street for this purpose.
Over the past 12 months (post 2018 local government elections), Council has worked through the many and varied issues surrounding our previous efforts to redevelop the Naracoorte Library, including taking into account the significant community engagement and feedback, design options, and the services that Council considered appropriate and relevant for our community.
“This significant decision will, in our opinion, provide excellent outcomes for the community in providing a quality library service in a very central location. The ability to internally link the Herald Building with the Naracoorte Town Hall will enable greater flexibility of use of both buildings, and enliven the Smith Street precinct” said Mayor Erika Vickery OAM
Development of this site is also expected to be an affordable option for council and the community, with an expected redevelopment cost of up to $2million.
Council will now engage an architect to provide internal design and fit out plans, front façade designs, and ideas for streetscape development to provide a focus for the Library and Town Hall sites.
Once Council is satisfied with internal design options, tenders will be called to undertake the required works, with a preference to utilise local contractors. Subject to tender outcomes, it is envisaged that this project could be funded through cash reserves held by Council or a blend of cash reserves and loan funds. There is an expectation that development costs, and ongoing operational costs will not place any additional financial burden on Council rates.
The old library site on DeGaris Place will now be assessed for renovation and repair for administrative purposes.
Mayor Vickery also added that “Council acknowledges the community’s past frustration with this project, but that ultimately, it is preferable to make the right decisions for the right reasons, which we believe we have now done, and shows a strong and collective leadership by elected Council.”