City of Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore said: “It has been 20 years since the Centre has opened, and in recent years, with the increased use of facilities, it has become clear that a facelift is necessary to meet the demands of residents and other users.”
Facilities in line for an upgrade include its community hall, multi-purpose community rooms and gymnasium. There are also plans for a rooftop garden, increased spaces for community hire and a commercial kitchen in the works. The improved facilities and infrastructure will aim to support services for the over-55s and young people.
Initial ideas for improvement of the Centre were developed in collaboration with the local community where feedback was sought and incorporated into the design brief for potential tender applicants. City of Sydney Council also has plans to engage in consultation with these stakeholders throughout the refurbishment process.
The Council has appointed Neeson Murcott Architects to oversee the refurbishment, upgrade and fit-out of this 19th-century building. It is estimated the concept design for the building will be completed in early 2013 and construction is expected to commence in 2014.
Programs currently run by the centre include an out-of-school hours program service for children aged 5-12 and a youth centre for teenagers. It also offers a wide range of activities, ranging from fitness classes such as Yoga and Pilates to dance classes such as Zumba and Salsa.
