An artist’s impression of what the new Helensburgh Library and Community Centre may look like. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
Helensburgh residents have gotten a sneak peek at the plans for their new library and community centre, after nearly a decade of planning.
Early concept designs were unveiled during a community presentation at Tradies Helensburgh.
Attendees were shown plans for a two-storey facility offering a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces for learning, wellbeing, social activities and recreation.
The proposed design features a covered entry forecourt capable of hosting community markets, popups and other activations.
Inside, modern, light-filled and fully accessible spaces will support workshops, fitness classes, meetings and group activities, supporting a range of uses from morning to evening.
Students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and small businesses will benefit from free internet access and a range of flexible study, co-working and office areas.
A large 220 sqm hall and auditorium with seating for more than 200 people, a community kitchen and integrated AV equipment will accommodate larger functions and events.
The planned library will be more than double the size of the current Helensburgh Library, with expanded children’s learning and play spaces, updated technology and an enhanced collection.
A Wollongong City Council spokesperson said the new facility reflected Helensburgh’s strong environmental values, with sustainability principles embedded throughout the project, including efficient construction methods, climate-resilient design and energy and water-saving measures.
Designed to make the most of the surrounding bushland outlook, the proposed design also incorporates renewable, low-carbon materials and aims to minimise construction impacts on the local community and environment.
Wollongong Lord Mayor Tania Brown welcomed the milestone in delivering this cornerstone project for Helensburgh.
“Community centres and library hubs are essential civic infrastructure that strengthen social, educational, cultural and economic wellbeing,” Cr Brown said.
“We are proud of the role these facilities play across the LGA and I’m pleased that we are adding two important new centres over the next few years, in Helensburgh and at the new Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library in Warrawong.
“Residents have been calling for improved community spaces for nearly a decade and I’m glad we are on track to deliver this much needed, vibrant facility for one of Wollongong’s most geographically distinct communities.”
Sherson Architecture is the principal design consultant for the new centre.
The firm has offices in Austinmer and Wanaka, New Zealand and boasts expertise in environmentally responsible design and construction.
The new Helensburgh Community Centre and Library is scheduled for completion by late 2028.
