Fresh vision for community hall project in Wee Waa

A fresh proposal to revamp the Wee Waa community hall project, located at the site of the former NAB branch, is being explored by Narrabri Shire Council.

The matter was brought to council’s attention by elected member Ethan Towns who said community members had approached him seeking a re-evaluation of the site.

The former NAB building was demolished with the premises gifted to council for community use.

Council previously secured a grant of $2,554,705, through the Resources for Regions fund, for the development of a Wee Waa Community and Business Hub.

Cr Towns said people had raised that some of the amenities to be located in the future community precinct already existed in current facilities.

He told last week’s council meeting that suggestions had been made that the area be more of a memorial park while also incorporating elements of sporting achievements and indigenous culture.

“Essentially it would encapsulate all what Wee Waa is about in one park,” Cr Towns said.

“Have it more as a vibrant area, with lots of shade, more trees, and a seating area for the Anzac parade.

“It’s a very important part of Wee Waa.”

As part of Cr Towns’ motion, council will investigate alternative design options for the Wee Waa Community Hall site that reduce the scale and footprint of the currently proposed building.

Council will also consider options that include a smaller structure incorporating essential amenities and a kiosk space, while prioritising the broader site as landscaped public space.

Mayor Darrell Tiemens queried why the concerns hadn’t emerged earlier. Cr Towns noted that with the old NAB building now removed, the community could see the site’s potential more clearly.

Cr Towns said a rethink of the precinct could be more cost effective while delivering something the community wants. Cr Ryan Whillas also spoke in support of Cr Towns’ comments and the community’s suggestions for the space.

Cr Tiemens acknowledged that council had received letters from local organisations expressing strong support for rethinking the site’s proposed use.

Cr Jocellin Jansson moved an amendment to the motion, to ensure community engagement continues alongside the investigation into alternative designs.

Shire general manager Eloise Chaplain said the timing of the motion was ideal as council had the development application for the precinct approved and was about to go to tender.

Cr Tiemens then told the meeting that building costs had gone up by almost 30 per cent. Rising construction costs were also acknowledged by Ms Chaplain.

Ms Chaplain noted that staff were focused on refining the project to ensure it aligns with budget parameters before returning to council for endorsement.

The motion to investigate alternative options for the site was moved by Cr Towns and seconded by Cr Whillas. As part of the motion, council will explores opportunities for the site to incorporate landscaping, paved areas and memorial or historic elements recognising Wee Waa’s history and providing a space for community gatherings and commemorative events.