After nearly a decade of consultation and planning, residents in the northern part of the Wollongong LGA are a step closer to a new Helensburgh Community Centre and Library. Early concept designs were unveiled tonight during a community presentation at Tradies Helensburgh.
Attendees were shown plans for a two-storey facility offering a mix of flexible indoor and outdoor spaces suitable for learning, wellbeing, social activities and recreation.
The proposed design features an attractive covered entry forecourt capable of hosting community markets, popups and other activations. Inside, modern, light-filled and fully accessible spaces will support workshops, fitness classes, meetings and group activities, supporting a range of uses from morning to evening.
Students, job seekers, entrepreneurs and small businesses will benefit from free internet access and a range of flexible study, co-working and office areas.
A large 220sqm hall and auditorium - with seating for more than 200 people, a community kitchen and integrated AV equipment - will accommodate larger functions and events.
The planned library will be more than double the size of the current Helensburgh Library, with expanded children's learning and play spaces, updated technology and an enhanced collection.
The new facility reflects Helensburgh's strong environmental values, with sustainability principles embedded throughout the project, including efficient construction methods, climate-resilient design and energy and water-saving measures.
Designed to make the most of the surrounding bushland outlook, the proposed design also incorporates renewable, low-carbon materials and aims to minimise construction impacts on the local community and environment.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown welcomed the milestone in delivering this cornerstone project for Helensburgh.
"Community centres and library hubs are essential civic infrastructure that strengthen social, educational, cultural and economic wellbeing," Cr Brown said.
"We are proud of the role these facilities play across the LGA, and I'm pleased that we are adding two important new centres over the next few years — in Helensburgh and at the new Southern Suburbs Community Centre and Library in Warrawong.
"Residents have been calling for improved community spaces for nearly a decade, and I'm glad we are on track to deliver this much needed, vibrant facility for one of Wollongong's most geographically distinct communities."
The new Helensburgh Community Centre and Library is scheduled for completion by late 2028.
For the latest updates, visit Council's Helensburgh Community Centre and Library project webpage
