September 2012
Tuesday, 18 September 2012 15:07

Further $500,000 for Bairnsdale Library Precinct

A project to extend and upgrade the Bairnsdale Library to include a number of innovative community open space and meeting places is being supported with $500,000 in Coalition Government funding announced today by Member for Gippsland East, Tim Bull.

“Today’s announcement is on top of the $750,000 announced earlier this year by the Minister for Local Government – bringing the overall State Government contribution to $1.25 million.”

Mr Bull said the funding would support the community meeting space and connectivity elements of the $3.72 million Bairnsdale Library Precinct – Community Access and Connection project.

“The council has been working with the Bairnsdale community to develop this exciting project and ensure the new library precinct meets the needs of the community now and into the future.”

Mr Bull said the project would enable members of the Bairnsdale community and the smaller dispersed communities of East Gippsland Shire to meet, interact and connect with each other.

“The project will provide improved community infrastructure and services, and improved community connections through enhanced places, spaces and technology,” Mr Bull said.

“The community space and shared community space represent about one-fifth of the enclosed floor space and our funding will support a proportion of these spaces and associated kitchenette and amenities and for the outdoor plaza.”

“The funding will also help restore some internal historic features of the existing 1889 heritage listed building.”

East Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Dick Ellis said, “The East Gippsland Shire is particularly pleased with today’s announcement and welcomes the $500,000 in funding from the State Government.”

“This new facility will add real character and value to the library creating a truly living library that will service the entire district”

Mr Bull said Coalition Government funding for the Bairnsdale Library Precinct – Community Access and Connection project would be provided through the $1 billion Regional Growth Fund’s Putting Locals First Program to East Gippsland Shire Council, which would contribute the balance.

“It is supporting stronger and more sustainable regional communities by building their capacity to drive development in their region.”

The Bairnsdale Library Precinct – Community Access and Connection project is expected to be completed in March 2014.

Published in Media