A brand new cultural centre for Dalby is a step closer to reality, with Western Downs Regional Council preparing to call for concept designs following extensive community input.
Western Downs Regional Council has completed the final phase of community consultation which involved several community and stakeholder workshops, online and printed surveys, and public information stalls.
Council Spokesperson for Strategic Communications and Council Facilities Councillor Megan James said Council was impressed with the standard of community feedback and collaboration which will ultimately guide the development of the new cultural centre.
“This new precinct is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create new and everlasting cultural benefits to Dalby and the Western Downs, and community input is a critical part of Council’s vision for the project,” Cr James said.
“Following a series of Community Advisory Panel sessions, digital and printed surveys, stakeholder workshops, and public information stalls delivered over a 12-month period, Council has a firm understanding of what matters most to the community in delivering a great new facility that will shape the identity of Dalby for the future.”
Cr James said urban design experts with experience in the culture, arts and placemaking had worked alongside a community advisory panel to help identify several key themes and values for the new centre.
“The feedback gathered through this process has made it really clear that the new centre should be a community-focused space which is inclusive, safe, and social for all age groups, offers multipurpose opportunities with integrated indoor and outdoor spaces, and access to the latest technology,” she said.
“The community has told us the new facility should be a central hub to gather, offering iconic building design and creating a new visitor attraction for the region.
“Interestingly, the feedback has given us an indication that the community is open to a range of location options, such as Thomas Jack Park, land near the Myall Creek, the former site on Drayton Street, or spread across several locations in the central business area.”
Council is now working through the community feedback and will decide on the proposed site for the new centre in coming weeks. From there, Council will then go to market for conceptual designs to bring the community’s ideas to life.
The community will have further opportunities to have their say when the concept designs are drafted and ready for public feedback.
