A historic regional Library has been earmarked for an $11 million facelift subject to Federal funding

Harvey’s CBD is on track to see some major upgrades in the coming years, with the town’s historic library earmarked for an $11 million upgrade. At their most recent meeting, Harvey shire councillors voted to submit an application to the second round of the Federal Government’s $393 million Growing Regions Program to redevelop the Harvey Library and add a community area. Under the application, the War Memorial Library would be expanded to include a central outdoor reading court surrounded by an expansion on the indoor space along with new quiet study areas. The plans keep the history section within the structure of the old building. An expansion of Harvey Community Radio’s studios are also included, with the organisation set to receive major upgrades including two permanent studios built adjacent to the library. During the meeting Cr Robyn Coleman asked if it was necessary for the council to build anything other than the library, highlighting previous discussions where council pushed “fiscal responsibility”. “The reason I ask is because I know the radio station are reasonably happy where they are,” she said. “I am just wondering if we could bring those costs down, and therefore the borrowings for future ratepayers, again taking on previous comments around fiscal responsibility.” Shire chief executive Annie Riordan said it was unlikely the shire would be able to adjust its application given applications for the Growing Regions Program close on October 10. “We have the detailed plans and costings based off that facility,” she said. “There is not the ability to start making alterations to the buildings and the costings to be able to submit a grant application in this round.” Cr Coleman said it was a fair comment, but asked if it would be possible to stage the build. “My concern is the potential $8 million loan that we will incur for future ratepayers,” she said. Mrs Riordan said if the application was successful, the project needed to be built as presented. The vote passed 9-1 with only Cr Coleman voting against. The remainder of the proposed CBD plans would transform the existing shire buildings into a mix of arts spaces and community areas. The existing council buildings would become an arts hub with makers spaces, ceramic studios and an outdoor arts courtyard. The shire’s admin would be moved further up Young Street, with the planned new council chambers looking to sit along Gibbs Street with a space for an indigenous gallery and a cafe. These remaining plans, however, will be likely perused at a later date.