Sutherland Shire Council has appointed a consultant to prepare a detailed business case as the next step in the comprehensive planning and scoping process for a new entertainment centre.
Following an expression of interest process, Sutherland Shire Council appointed Capital Insight Pty Limited to undertake the work.
Capital Insight has previously worked on the Ipswich Performing Arts Centre and numerous public infrastructure projects for Councils throughout New South Wales.
The council voted in June, 2014 to demolish and rebuild the centre for $40 million and to seek expressions of interest from the private and public sectors for a partnership proposal to design and construct the centre.
A council report found the 40-year-old centre had several problems including a leaking roof and required major works to sustain its role for the community.
The business case would take into account the impact on the council’s budget and future sources of funding.
Sutherland Shire mayor, Carmelo Pesce said a detailed business case was vital in this project to ensure that all aspects of this project are explored and well considered.
‘’This will be one of the largest projects that Council has ever undertaken so we need to get it right,” Cr Pesce said.
“We hope to have the completed report later this year which will present a number of options for the council to review.
‘’There will then be a comprehensive consultation process with the community before we progress further into the design and construction process.’’
Consultation was undertaken to assist in the development of the feasibility study which was considered by council in June last year.
This included surveys of hirers and patrons, which generated 250 responses and a user consultation workshop.
“We’ve already had a high level of involvement from community members and users of the Entertainment Centre in the process we’ve undertaken so far through the feasibility study, and we want that to continue.
“A new Entertainment Centre in Sutherland has the potential to transform the Shire’s civic heart. But what we need is a facility that is flexible and inviting that will meet our needs now and into the future.
“It’s critical that this project delivers the best possible outcome at the best value to ratepayers.’’
Demolition and rebuilt was one of three options for the centre in a feasibility study by architect Cox Richardson.
Other options were to retain the centre and refurbish for $23 million, expansion for $30 million and rebuilding for $40 million.
Another base option for a minimalist refurbishment was seen as an interim solution lasting 10 to 15 years.
