Construction work to convert the historic Macaria building into Camden’s first public art gallery will begin soon.
This week, Council awarded the construction tender to transform the heritage listed building into a designated art space.
“This iconic building in the heritage precinct of Camden town centre is a perfect place for an art gallery,” said Mayor Lara Symkowiak.
“The creation of a dedicated public art gallery will help to enhance and promote the cultural identity of the area and be a key economic driver for the Camden area,” Cr Symkowiak said.
“Council has an obligation to invest in the preservation of the Macaria building. Particular design elements have been included to ensure it meets the necessary standards of an art gallery,” she said.
The renovation works include the creation of a reception area, new lighting, air conditioning, display units, accessible toilet, upgraded kitchen and polished timber floors. Axis Construction will begin works onsite next month which are scheduled to be complete by December this year.
♦ In other Camden area news, the renovation and upgrade of the Mount Annan Leisure Centre (MALC) is nearing completion, with the crèche facility for child minding and new health and fitness rooms now open to the public.
The construction program of the $13.5 million project has been delivered in two stages to minimise disruption to services.
“Embellishing and expanding the leisure centre will provide the community with access to high quality indoor sports and health facilities,” said Cr Symkowiak. “The needs of the patrons have been a priority the whole way through this large scale construction project, with the timing of works staggered to reduce the impact on patrons as much as possible.
“The crèche service supports the recreational needs of parents and carers to maintain fitness and good health,” she said.
Features of the second stage of the development include:
• Expansion of the health and fitness facilities including new amenities;
• Upgrade of service desk and entry foyer;
• Expansion of crèche facilities;
• Upgrade of kiosk and servery;
• Additional car parking.
The final stages of the works are now being undertaken, including the fitout of the two indoor sports hall with new specialist gymnasium flooring.
A special event will be held after the centre opens in September with a date to be announced soon.
