Mudgee will be home to one of the top arts precincts in regional NSW, with work almost complete on construction of a new complex.
Member for the Dubbo electorate Dugald Saunders recently visited the site, which incorporates the former NSW Government building in Market Street.
“It looks fantastic and it will really add to what Mudgee has to offer, not only for locals but for visitors to the region as well,” Mr Saunders said.
“This project started with the sale of the site to Mid-Western Regional Council for $1, and from there the government has provided $3.8 million that has enabled the council to create a precinct that is modern but also recognises the history of the old building.
“Mudgee already has fine food and wine, and a wonderful sporting complex at Glen Willow. Now, we are creating somewhere for the local arts fraternity to call home and a venue that is unlike anything else in regional NSW.”
Mid-Western Regional Council general manager Brad Cam has overseen the project, and said the complex will be something the community can be proud of.
“It looks fantastic and I think the community will be rapt when they get to look inside. They will be absolutely gobsmacked,” Mr Cam said.
“The pressed metal ceilings have been restored, the original lights have been restored and the rising damp has been rectified. It’s made an old building reusable and the blend between the old and the new is just brilliant.
“The visitor information centre will be here as well, and the staff are absolutely thrilled. That will bring a lot of people into the building and then the added bonus is the art gallery space, which will have a heavy local focus.”