December's Neighbourhood Forum 1 Report

Community feedback on new Helensburgh Community Centre and Library

Wollongong City Council staff have completed their engagement period but you can still submit comments. Here is a summary of what Council’s Engagement team learned from your feedback.

What was important:

• Flexible room for activities, such as reading, performing, working, playing and exercising
• A welcoming, comforting and accessible space with ample parking
• Better internet and technology
• Plenty of natural light, bush views, eco-friendly
• A building that has a distinctive design such as modern, country feel or coastal
• Artwork and history displays

Things to consider if budget allows:

• Multiple spaces and facilities
• Specific design feature
• Ample parking at the new centre
• Existing library site incorporated into the design
• Space for indoor sport
• Landscaping that reflects the surroundings
• Large hall space like Thirroul
• Sustainable and accessible features.

Features of Helensburgh in order of importance to the community:

1. Helensburgh has beautiful bushland
2. Helensburgh is a vibrant country village
3. The proximity to the coast
4. Passionate sporting community
5. Our mining history.

Next steps

Council staff will prepare a report for councillors as part of the decision-making process.

NF1 members are concerned that the new centre will be smaller than the old one, parking will be limited and council is trying to push through quickly on one of 2508’s biggest projects.

Residents have told NF1 they want all four blocks of land used; they don’t want the current two library blocks to be sold. They want enough parking for the shopping area and the new centre.

Rather than parking entry & exit to Walker St via the roundabout at Lilyvale St and via Walker Lane, Council is talking about just Walker Lane – what happens when a semi-trailer is delivering to Coles?

To have your say, contact a Ward One councillor or email council@wollongong.nsw.gov.au