Improved accessibility, modern spaces for kids and families, and new podcasting facilities are on the way for the Glen Innes Severn Learning Centre following a $500,000 funding boost.
Glen Innes Severn Council secured the funding through the NSW Government’s State Library of NSW Public Library Infrastructure Grants program, recognising the vital role the Learning Centre plays as a Council facility and service in a regional community.
Mayor, Margot Davis thanked the NSW Government, Minister for the Arts, John Graham and the State Library of NSW for their support in delivering the investment, noting the funding reflects the importance of accessible, multi-use spaces in regional areas.
“In communities like ours, facilities like the Learning Centre do a lot of heavy lifting,” Mayor Davis said.
“They’re places where people come to learn, access services, connect with others and build new skills. This funding recognises that and allows us to strengthen what we already have.”
Rather than a cosmetic update, the project focuses on making the space more usable, flexible and better equipped to meet a changing mix of community needs, the Mayor said.
The upgrades will deliver dedicated improvements for children and young people, including a redesigned Children and Youth Area and a more functional Children’s Room with storage and preparation space to support programs.
A new soundproof room will introduce something entirely new for the community, creating a space for recording and podcasting and boosting opportunities for digital skills development, creative projects and local content creation.
“This is about making sure people in Glen Innes Severn have access to the same kinds of opportunities you’d expect in larger centres,” Mayor Davis said.
“From supporting young people to building digital skills, these upgrades help bridge that gap.”
Community spaces throughout the Learning Centre will also be reconfigured to better support both quiet use and group activities, with new furniture and modern shelving improving comfort and accessibility.
The outdoor courtyard will also become a more functional part of the facility, with a waterproof and sunproof sail allowing it to be used more regularly for programs and events, the Mayor said.
Additional works include new floor coverings throughout the Learning Centre, internal and external painting, feature walls and murals, and upgrades to internal and external CCTV security systems.
“We want to make sure our community has places that support how people live, learn and connect – not just now, but into the future,” Mayor Davis said.
