Progress continues for the new joint-use library and community facility, following the lodgement of a Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) application request to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment.
The SEARs application includes the proposed delivery of a range of facilities in a new up to three-level building, including reading areas, video conferencing, a multipurpose workshop, computer lab, youth wellbeing hub, a coffee bar and a Wiradjuri learning and cultural centre.
“As the project has a value of more than $20m, it is classed as a State Significant Development. This means the development application will be determined by the NSW Government’s Department of Planning and Environment (DPE),” shared Mayor Ingram.
The SEARs request is the first step in the planning approval process and included a concept design and description of the project. The NSW Department of Planning and Environment will assess the project and advise the project team on the studies that need to be included as part of the main development application.
The Department of Education and Hilltops Council are working in partnership to deliver the Library and Community Facility which is proposed to be located at Young High School on Department of Education land and fully integrated with Carrington Park. The facility will be jointly used by the school and the residents of Young and the wider Hilltops community.
Hilltops Council is contributing $6.5m to the project. This is made up of $3m from the Regional Cultural Fund, $2m from the Stronger Communities Fund and $1.5m from the council’s long-term financial plan. The Department of Education is responsible for funding the remainder.
“A range of factors including the heritage significance of the area has been taken into consideration in the location of the joint-use facility. The community are welcome to come and view the plan on display at the Council office in Young,” said Mayor Ingram.
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Sarah Karaitiana 0418 755 092