The Community and Cultural Facilities Plan 2021-2031 - a strategy to guide Council's decision-making on community and cultural facilities across the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area (LGA) for the next 10 years - has been adopted by Council.
The draft document was on public exhibition from 16 November 2020 until 16 December 2020 and received 28 submissions.
The priority projects highlighted for enhancement or development over the next 10 years include:
- expansion of the Jetty Memorial Theatre (multi-purpose and rehearsal space);
- a Cultural Collections facility;
- a Moonee Community Hub;
- a Coffs Harbour Entertainment Venue;
- the Ayrshire Park community meeting space;
- expansion of the Branch Library network; and
- a Youth Services and Recreation Hub feasibility project.
"We have a range of community and cultural facilities - such as libraries, art galleries and community centres, to rural halls and an indoor theatre venue," said Sian Nivison, Council's Group Leader Community and Cultural Services.
"The Plan aims to give people equitable access to community gathering places and suitable spaces where they can enjoy creative programs and activities that enhance connections in our culturally vibrant regional city."
Over the next 10 years, the Coffs Harbour Region is projected to grow by around 11,000 residents. Community and cultural facility planning is an important part of planning for the city's growth and development.
The Community and Cultural Facilities Plan 2021-2031 takes into account existing strategic documents and available community facilities, as well as the needs of our local population and its composition. It has identified opportunities to help develop a future range of spaces for community purposes.
Funding for the proposed facilities will be sought from Federal and State Government grants, as well as opportunities in future Council budgets.
