Library development set to start after almost 10 years in the works

Published on 11 April 2024

* Left to right – Jay Nankivell (Council’s General Manager), Stephen Neille (Director - Neeson Murcutt Neille Architects), Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton, Mayor Tom Kennedy and Mark Chase (Director - North Construction and Building) Mayor Tom Kennedy turns the first sod for the City’s $8.7 million library project.

The city’s library development is set to start and will result in a major overhaul of the Broken Hill Library. It will transform the facility into ‘more than a library’, being a modern centre of learning and cultural preservation.

Mayor Tom Kennedy welcomed Federal Member for Parkes Mark Coulton to the city and agreed with Mr Coulton that it was a momentous day for the Broken Hill community.

“I’m thrilled to be here today to mark the start of construction for the new library development,” Mr Coulton said. 

“This project has been a long time coming and I’m proud to have helped secure $8.7 million under the former Coalition Government’s Building Better Regions Fund to go towards the CBD revitalisation. 

“Having a modern library is a key part of attracting families to town.  A library is more than just books; it’s a meeting place, a cultural and educational centre and an important community facility, and this project will provide a wonderful asset that the people of Broken Hill will be able to enjoy for years to come. 

“I look forward to seeing the development come to life over the coming months.” 

The project brings together both local and contemporary architecture that has been designed to fit in inclusively with the heritage status of Broken Hill.

Mayor Tom Kennedy was excited to see construction works begin.

“The new library project has effectively been in the works for almost ten years, so it's very exciting for both Council and the community to see it finally move forward," said Mayor Kennedy.

“I can’t wait to see the enhanced features that have been specifically crafted for the local landscape come to life. The children’s library, digital learning hubs and various spaces for the community to utilise is going to significantly increase the liveability and accessibility of the city and cater for our growing population.”

The project is funded by the NSW Government, Federal Government and Council.