The GIL Library Hub building in Miller Street is a flagship project for Gilgandra and will deliver on Gilgandra Shire Council's (Council) core action to drive The Gilgandra Activation Blueprint. The Hub, with its art deco facade and distinctive curved curtain windows will house a community living room, business incubator, multipurpose and bookable rooms, and modernised youth space complete with tech and sound rooms.
General Manager, David Neeves reiterates Council's commitment to supporting the community's sentiments by preserving the building's unique architectural elements.
"Many in the community will have seen the spectacular transformation of the old Target building into a contemporary feature building of the CBD over the past 18 months. Following feedback from community consultation, Council is determined to conserve and enhance the building's distinctive art deco characteristics."
Adding,
"The restoration of a structure of this age and significance has presented various design challenges and construction complexities that our project team, working closely with the architect and construction company, are diligently addressing."
During the final certification phase, an independent Building Certifier identified compliance issues requiring rectification before occupancy permits can be granted.
"While we navigate through these challenges, there will be a slight delay in commencing the building's interior fit-out. The project team is working together and must finalise the outstanding tasks before the fit-out phase can commence, which will be carried out by separate contractors."
Throughout the construction period, unforeseen external factors including COVID-19 and supply of labour and materials generally felt across all areas of the construction industry have also contributed to delays, with the recent certification complications the latest hurdle. At this time Council is unable to provide a definite timeframe for completion.
"The total cost of the project, including internal fit-out and reconstruction of the adjacent Plaza is six million. I can assure residents that this project operates under a fixed price, construct only lump sum contract and that the extra time taken is not coming at a direct cost to the community." Says Mr Neeves
Council is working with the construction company to secure approval for the Plaza area as an interim measure, allowing public access to the new amenities. Further updates will be shared with the community once concrete timelines are established.
"The Gil Library Hub will be a feature of Miller Street for years to come, it is Council's position that the building meets compliance standards before taking back possession of the building. Whilst Council continues to work through this, the construction company and Council all remain committed to delivering the highest quality finished product for the community."
