Regional Library to proceed but not until 2021

Central Coast Regional Library Concept 1Central Coast Regional Library Concept 1. (This is a design concept, not the final plans)

Central Coast Council is moving forward with the Gosford Regional Library and Innovation Hub at the Parkside site, Donnison St, Gosford, but construction is not set to start until 2021.

Mayor, Lisa Matthews, said she was thrilled to see the catalyst project proceed. “There is an urgent need for the delivery of the Regional Library to provide contemporary and future multi-use spaces where our community can meet, connect and learn, ” Cr Matthews said.

“The community has significant investment and interest in progressing this project, so it is essential that we now put our energy and efforts into making it a reality.

“To ensure that the project moves as quickly as possible, planning of the tender process for design and construction has commenced and we anticipate the development application will be lodged as early as June next year.

“Following discussions with the current Parkside tenants, demolition and construction works have been pushed back to February, 2021, so as not to disrupt the stability of the services and provide ample time to relocate. ”

Budget allocations of $1.115M for the Gosford Cultural Precinct have been reallocated for the design and development stage of the Regional Library and staff are finalising discussions with the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development to secure $7M in Federal funding.

Source: Agenda item 4.9 Central Coast Council meeting, Dec 9 Media statement, Dec 10 Central Coast Council