It is part of a major revitalisation of downtown Gosford, designed to restore the CBD to its former glory days as the region’s premier commercial and entertainment precinct.
The long- RPACC centre will be constructed on the preferred site with the potential for integration with the Regional Library to develop a cultural precinct.
The announcement has been welcomed by CBD business owners.
The Council-owned pub is located right next door to Council’s Gosford office and was selected as the most suitable site for the RPACC based on results from recent investigations into six options.
While the cost for the RPACC to be constructed at any one of the six investigated sites came out higher than originally anticipated, plans for the centre now include a car park which helps to address the wider issues of traffic management and parking across the Gosford CBD.
Council Director, Connected Communities Julie Vaughan said now the location had been finalized, council could lock in a detailed design for the RPACC and work with partners, including the Conservatorium of Music, to ensure the centre met the needs of the broader community, while still being economically viable.
“We are looking to deliver a 1,000 seat performance space with retractable seating, a fly tower, a much-anticipated orchestra pit, a studio space for smaller performances and break-out rooms,” Ms Vaughan said.
“Additionally, approximately 450 parking spaces will also be constructed, and will be accessible to the general public when not in use by the RPACC – which will tie in nicely with the broader parking strategy for the Gosford CBD.”
The $30m in funding has been promised in a three way split between the Federal Government, State Government and Council. An additional $2m has been promised for the construction of an adjoining conservatorium.
Ms Vaughan said Council would continue to work with both the Commonwealth and State Governments on delivery and funding of the project.
Mayor Jane Smith said the RPACC was a priority project for Council to deliver for the community and would now be delivered as an integrated plan and was a catalyst in the revitalisation of the Gosford CBD.
“Council had an important decision to make here and I believe we have made the right one and we can now get on with bringing this project to a reality,” Mayor Smith said.
‘It is an exciting time for the Gosford CBD and the wider Central Coast community.
“We will be creating an outstanding cultural venue that the Central Coast can be proud of, and will appeal to all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
“The development of the RPACC is essential as we work towards establishing a true capital for the Central Coast and creating the vibrant and sustainable region our community want and deserve.”
“Together with the Gosford Regional Library we can create an integrated arts and cultural hub in the heart of the Gosford CBD.”
Current construction timeline for the RPACC is that it will start in January 2019 and take 18 months to build.
