20 January, 2022
Chinchilla's key cultural hub will be revitalised as part of a $8.4 million project to be delivered by Western Downs Regional Council and the Australian Government.
Council has secured $6.9 million under the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure
(LRCI) Program, signalling a green light for works to commence in coming months.
Federal Member for Maranoa David Littleproud said the federal government has moved quickly to approve Council's submission to fund the Chinchilla Cultural Centre Precinct Redevelopment.
"This LRCI funding allocation paves the way for shovels to hit the dirt to make it a reality," Mr Littleproud said.
"This will provide a vital boost for our local communities, backing local jobs and economic growth while delivering lasting upgrades that will benefit residents for years to come."
Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Paul McVeigh said the revitalisation of the Chinchilla Cultural Precinct would deliver a modern, vibrant, and inviting space for residents and visitors.
"This project will breathe new life into this popular local precinct, which is home to our Customer Contact Centre, Cultural Centre, Library, Cinema, and Lapunyah Art Gallery," Cr McVeigh said.
"The revitalisation is unique to the local area and creates new opportunities for the community to come together to enjoy activities and community events, while also encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region.
"This project was fast-tracked as part of Council's COVID-19 Recovery Package to secure and create jobs and enhance the liveability of the region, and we are delighted the Australian Government has partnered with us to deliver this exciting project for the region."
Council Spokesperson for Strategic Communications and Council Facilities Councillor Megan James said the project presented an exciting opportunity to enhance much-loved community facilities to meet current and future needs.
"We know how much the community loves this wonderful precinct and this project is about reinvigorating these facilities to support the needs of the region and grow our ability to attract more people to the region to live and visit," Cr James said.
"Council has been working with the key users of the facilities to complete a design that caters to their needs, and we're excited to continue working with the community as the project progresses over the coming months."
The final design is currently being finalised, with works expected to commence in coming months.
Project Key Features
- Revitalised and modernised cinema entry and office
- Reinvigorated library, with open and welcoming entryway and seating, as well as multimedia area, computer room and reading courtyard
- Revitalised art gallery with a whole new layout and refreshed look and feel, as well as new communal workshop activity areas
- Beautiful street arbours and 'bush houses'
- New communal workshop for community activities
- New walkway, seating, landscaping
- Grass amphitheatre and sitting terraces
- Enhanced lighting
- New signage and wayfinding
- Refurbished precinct public toilets
