Albury City Council has confirmed the acceptance of a $32.8 million tender for the Albury Entertainment Centre (AEC) Convention Wing redevelopment, paving the way for the construction phase of the multi-million-dollar project.
At its meeting this week, the Council resolved to accept the tender from Albury-based Zauner Construction Pty Ltd.
Built in 1972 and last upgraded in 1993, the Convention Wing has long required substantial renewal, the Council said.
The redevelopment, supported by $15 million in State and $10 million in Federal Government funding, will deliver a modern, accessible and inclusive venue for the community and visitors.
“Council has resolved to accept the tender so the project can move to the construction phase within the approved budget,” said Mayor Kevin Mack.
“The decision recognises the external funding secured for the redevelopment. It is important that we now manage delivery carefully and maintain strong oversight of costs.”
Construction is scheduled to commence in April.
Once completed, it’s anticipated the redevelopment will:
- Generate an estimated $124.9 million economic contribution during construction, creating 336 full-time equivalent jobs
- Deliver ongoing annual economic benefits of $22.5 million, supporting 267 FTE jobs
- Increase AlburyCity annual revenue from approximately $1.1 million to almost $5 million by 2028–29
- Double conference seating capacity to 2,000 patrons and enhance exhibition space
- Act as a catalyst for the revitalisation of the Albury CBD and improve connections to the Cultural Precinct including QEII Square, MAMA and the LibraryMuseum (improving public amenity and accessibility)
- Position the AEC as a leading regional conference destination, attracting more tourism and events.
“Council’s role now is to ensure the project is delivered responsibly and in a way that strengthens the broader cultural precinct,” said Mayor Mack.
