An artist’s impression of what the new Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library could look like. Photo: Wollongong City Council.
After 27 years since the need was recognised, a contract for the construction of the Southern Suburbs Commnunity Centre and Library at Warrawong will finally be awarded.
Wollongong City Council voted to accept a tender from Grindley Constructions Pty Ltd to build the three-storey facility which will contain a community centre, district library and function areas, as well as leaseholder accommodation for community organisations.
The tender also includes finalising the design for the space and associated landscaping, public domain works and car parking.
The cost of the project is no small change – Grindley Constructions will charge just over $41.5 million for the works.
Earlier this year the budget for the build was $30 million, however the Albanese Government committed an extra $10 million to the project upon re-election.
Demolition of the site has begun and is expected to be complete by the end of July.
Councillor Linda Campbell said she was delighted to see the project move forward after spending so long on the backburner.
“The need was identified in 1998 when the hot soundtrack was from the movie Titanic, John Howard was the prime minister and the most exciting new thing on TV was a program called Seachange,” she said.
“The median house price in Wollongong then was $120,000.
“Fast forward and of the four district-level facilities that were recommended, three have been built in Corrimal, Dapto and Thirroul.
“Now this last one is about to become a reality.”
Cr Campbell said libraries weren’t just places to read and learn.
They help foster equality and inclusion in diverse communities.
The Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library will house the Warrawong Community Centre, Illawarra Legal Service and the Vietnamese Association.
“It’s one of the few public indoor spaces you can go without being expected to spend money,” Cr Campbell said.
“Libraries provide a safe space for all and help to bridge the gap caused by social and economic disparity.”
Councillor Ann Martin acknowledged the $10 million federal contribution to the project.
She said the council would welcome any contributions from wealthy, generous benefactors.
“Come on, kick the tin, we’ve got a library to build – we’ll put your name somewhere,” she said.
Councillor Jess Whittaker proposed local native plants be prioritised in the landscaping works, to provide habitat and food for local wildlife and insects.
The amendment was adopted by the council, and the motion to accept the tender from Grindley Constructions passed.
The centre is expected to be built by late 2026.
