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Byron Library friends finally get their way after 20 years

BYRON Bay Friends of the Library, which has campaigned and fundraised for the past 20 years to see a new library built in the area, has welcomed the news that Byron Shire Council has awarded the construction tender to Badge Constructions (QLD) Pty Ltd.

To be built at a cost of $3.78 million, the construction company will take possession of the new library site early next month.

“We’re delighted it’s going to happen,” Byron Bay Friends of the Library president Bob Levett said.

“We are excited at the prospect of participating in the many varied and enjoyable activities ahead of us.”

Mayor Jan Barham said there would be a lot of excited and relieved residents.

“After many long years of waiting for a new library after the loss of the previous library associated with the old council chambers in Byron Bay in 1997, this important community project is about to start,” she said.

Cr Barham noted the project would provide a much-needed boost for tradespeople from the Queensland border to Lismore.

“The construction industry has been significantly affected from the economic slowdown,” she said.

“Hopefully the new project will help sustain some of the local tradespeople during what is a difficult time for the industry.”

As part of their tender submission, Badge Constructions indicated they would ensure a large amount of subcontractors were from the region.

The new library will be located on the corner of Lawson and Middleton Sts and will meet a large variety of community needs.

“Along with providing a lifelong learning centre, the building will also feature a space to display and celebrate the talent of artists and craftspeople within the shire in a dedicated exhibition area,” Cr Barham said.

“A designated room for indigenous research and archival material has been included.”

source: Northern Star

Posted: Monday, August 15th, 2011 Under: Arts, Byron Bay, Environment, Help, News, People, Property, Sources, activism, culture, education, fundraisers, health, indigenous culture, mental health, volunteers, youth. | Home |

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