28 Sept 2007 - Cavanbah Hall Redevelopment Progresses

The redevelopment of Cavanbah Hall is a step closer following the submission of a Development Application (DA) for the demolition of the existing building and the building of a new Seniors Centre.

The DA is available for viewing at Council's Administrative Centre from October 1 until October 14.

"A lot of work has been done since June this year - when Council resolved to redevelop the existing site - towards seeing this long-awaited Centre become a reality," said Stephen Sawtell, Council's General Manager.

"The DA is the start of the final phase of building a high quality facility that will cater for the different recreational and educational needs of the area's seniors as well as other community groups," he said.

The new Cavanbah Hall will feature a 260 square metre multi-functional hall, a function room, a flexible annexe space for smaller gatherings that can be arranged for a combination of uses, a large kitchen, break-out decks and ample storage.

The building has been positioned in the south-east corner of the site to maximise the potential for solar access and ventilation. The front of the building on Harbour Drive will consist of access ramps and stairs, built-in seats and walls and a veranda-style roof.

The area around the Centre will be landscaped and a new carpark will be created within the precinct of the existing Community Village.

Steel portal frames have been chosen for the main construction of the building as they provide the space and height needed while being cost-effective. This type of building can also be altered or expanded easily.

"The aim is to provide a facility that can cater for as broad a cross-section of needs as possible," said Mr Sawtell.

"Another factor brought into the planning was the opportunity available to complement the activities currently housed at the Community Village and provide space that may be more appropriate at the new Hall.

"Throughout the process, Council has carried out regular consultation with local seniors' groups and their input has been invaluable," he said.