Work has begun on planning the Woden Valley’s first community centre.
Minister for Community Services and Facilities, Chris Steel said Woden was the only Town Centre without a dedicated, fit-for-purpose community centre.
“I am bringing Agencies from across Government together to consider the options for a future community centre in consultation with the community,” Mr Steel said.
“As Woden’s regeneration continues, a community centre in the Town Centre to meet the future needs of the area is my priority.”
He said the community had told him there was a particular need to look at how to improve the availability of space for events, the arts, meetings and other community activities.
“The Government will also consider how we can accommodate Woden Community Service, which is currently spread across four locations within Woden, in the new community centre,” Mr Steel said.
“Woden Community Service has expanded significantly over recent years and provides much-needed support for children, families and vulnerable people in Woden and the region.”
He said the current work would build on the previous feasibility study and the Woden Town Centre Master Plan.
“It will also identify suitable sites and opportunities for consideration, and provide recommendations to Government on how to deliver a future fit-for-purpose community centre for Woden,” the Minister said.
Chief Executive of Woden Community Service, Chris Redmond welcomed the move, saying that it would allow for much-needed services, not currently available on the Southside, to be established in the new community facility.
“I appreciate the challenges of bringing together different sections of Government to coordinate the development of the community service hub,” Mr Redmond said.
“It takes time, patience and perseverance from all stakeholders,” he said.
