The proposed demolition of the iconic Sydney School Gosford Library building in Kibble Park is a short-sighted act of vandalism that will leave a lasting scar on our town.
This isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of our past, a place where generations have learned, grown, and dreamed.
To condemn it to the wrecking ball is a betrayal of our history and a disservice to future generations.
The building is iconic and adds to the architectural tapestry of our city and identity.
Central Coast Council’s claim of excessive maintenance costs is a smokescreen.
Meanwhile, millions have been lavished on other projects, while our heritage is left to rot.
The NSW Government Architect’s clear vision for the building’s repurposing as a community hub has been ignored, and we must ask why.
What is the real motive here?
The library building can be transformed into a vibrant cultural centre, housing a café, exhibition space, performance venue, or a community gathering place.
This would revitalise Gosford’s heart, attract visitors and enhance our quality of life.
The lack of proper research and yet the claim there was a high-level investigation in making the decision is an insult to the community.
Too many furphies have been peddled in recent times and this spin needs to stop.
Let’s hope the investigations already being undertaken by the CEO are proper and not spin and propaganda.
Thanks needs to go to Councillor Castles for bringing the Motion to Council.
Email, Dec 3
Joy Cooper, Green Point
Why is it that only a certain demographic of people wish to keep this building?
It would appear that none of the vocal minority are of a younger generation, live within the Gosford CBD or will be future inhabitants of any of the new apartments that are being built here.
As a parent with young children living in an apartment, I would much rather open spaces for them to run around in and to enjoy being outside than to go from one small space to another old small space.
Young children don’t want to visit the same fossil or amateur art exhibition every weekend. They want space to run and play.
As for the cost, if the building was to be heritage listed it would require a DA to change its use from a library to any other function. This would then be required to go to the Local Planning Panel and would trigger then requirement for all elements to be brought up to the current Australian Standards and Building Codes. This would be a far greater cost than the Demolition (approx. $500,000.00 as per council’s public listed contract register).
Gosford is full of empty commercial properties that all have for lease signs hanging in the windows. What benefit is it to the greater coast community to add more vacant space to this list?
Further investigations at the request of councillors are only costing the community more. Less than 0.5% of the Coasts population have signed a petition to save this building, and many of those have signed on the misguided idea that the library will not be replaced. This is clearly not the case with the new library currently under construction right across the road.
Those championing this crusade to save the redundant building, and the Councillors assisting them, should consider speaking to the future generations to understand what they want before speaking on their behalf.
Sometimes it is better to let go of the past to pave the best road forward for the future!