New Batlow Funding Approved
Published on 27 February 2018
Snowy Valleys Council Mayor James Hayes has welcomed the State Government’s announcement that it has approved grant funding of $1 million for construction of a new, state-of-the-art Library facility for Batlow.
Member for Wagga Wagga Daryl Maguire announced that Snowy Valleys Council would receive one million dollars for the project from the $200 million Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF).
Clr Hayes said he was delighted with the announcement and that the funding will ensure Snowy Valleys Council can deliver a 21st century library for the people of Batlow.
“Libraries are at the heart of rural communities like Batlow and a new Library will enable us to provide extended learning programs, improved public spaces and better access to technology for our community, well into the future,” said Clr Hayes
“It will create a significant community cultural precinct in the centre of Batlow.”
The NSW Government is investing in infrastructure projects across regional NSW communities to improve the lives of residents and enhance the attractiveness of these areas as vibrant places to live and work.
The new library facility will benefit a range of Batlow residents and visitors including children and youth, library users with mobility impairments, community groups, seasonal workers, library internet users, visitors and users of the Literary Institute hall.
Public consultation held in Batlow identified the need for an improved library facility that is fit-for-purpose for the medium to long term.
Snowy Valleys Council staff met with a delegation of library users and the Batlow Development League to discuss the concept plans for the new facility, as well as several alternatives, including a renovation of the Batlow Packing House complex in Pioneer Street.
Council’s General Manager Matthew Hyde said the outcome of these consultations was that a new, purpose-built library was the most appropriate option.
“In making our application for grant funding, we looked at the possibility of upgrading or extending the current Library, but realised that the best option, in terms of value for money and community access was to construct a new facility,” said Mr Hyde.
At this stage, construction is planned to commence in March 2019 with the aim of completing the works by March 2020.
“Our next step is to seek the Batlow community’s input into the final design of the building as we refine the concept plans into a detailed scope of works. We will then seek expressions of interest for construction of the new building,” Mr Hyde said.
Council will continue to regularly report back to the community as the building progresses.
For more information please contact Acting Director Strategy, Community & Development Robert Cox on 6941 2520 or [email protected]