The Sutherland Shire has approved the $41.2 million redevelopment of the Sutherland Entertainment Centre, one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region’s history.
As part of the redevelopment, the centre will feature a refurbished theatre with tiered seating for around 650 patrons, a full, fly-tower over the stage to cater for diverse performances and new flexible teaching and rehearsal spaces.
In addition, the project will provide a new entry forecourt incorporating a flexible outdoor event space, a larger foyer with enhanced accessibility, including lift access and improved amenities, improved performer/hirer functionality with enhanced back-of-house, and upgrades to Peace Park to enhance the surrounding street scape and improve the connectivity.
Sutherland Shire Mayor Steve Simpson said that he was delighted to work with his fellow Councillors and working party members in advancing a proposal which drew such strong support, acknowledging that the decision was not just a great result for the community, but also a significant moment in council’s history.
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“The Sutherland Entertainment Centre has been a much loved and well used performance and events space for over forty years, but we all acknowledge it is in need of a refresh to ensure it can continue to be the region’s premier entertainment destination for many years to come,” Simpson said.
“Plans to redevelop or replace our Entertainment Centre have been floated for almost as long as the building has been standing, with plans to upgrade the facility first brought before council in 1984.
“It’s been a very long road to get where we are today, with plenty of spirited discussion among Councillors over many years to see that we get this project right, but I am confident the decision reached last night will deliver an entertainment facility of which the whole community can be proud.”
The works aims to directly assist the arts community, which have been heavily impacted by the COVID-19 restrictions.
Council continues to pursue economic assistance from relevant Government agencies to support the project. Construction work is planned to commence on the project in early 2021, with works expected to be completed in 2022.