Released 14/07/2021
The ACT Government is continuing to invest in the growing Molonglo region by making the Coombs Community Activity Centre available for community groups.
“The ACT Government is investing social infrastructure that our new regions need to ensure that they grow to become strong and connected communities,” said Special Minister of State Chris Steel.
“The Government will provide 300m2 of privately owned space at the Coombs Community Activity Centre on Woodberry Ave for use by the community, including recreational, educational, artistic, social or cultural activities.
“This will be one of the main community spaces in Molonglo whilst the proposed community centre on the corner of Fred Daly Avenue is established. The new facility will also complement the new Denman Prospect Community Centre which is nearing completion."
Last month the ACT Government announced thata new Coombs Community Centrewill be built as a Government-owned facility part of the Coombs and Wright Village.
In addition to the two schools which are available for community use, there are a total of five community facilities in the Molonglo Valley that have been built, are under construction, or are being planned.
The Denman Village community centre is in the final stages of construction and the Government has also committed to build a new Library and Community Centre at the future Molonglo Commercial Centre following a co-design process with the community.
The existing Stromlo Cottage community facility will also soon be available for use by a community-based organisation following maintenance work being undertaken.
The ACT Government has agreed to cover the immediate costs associated with the establishment and upkeep of the privately owned Coombs Community Activity Centre, including rent, security, cleaning, and general fit out for an initial five-year period.
“The investment in the Coombs Community Activity space will ensure that in the short term there is an affordable space for community groups to book and use,” Minister Steel said.
“The fit out of the facility will include a meeting room that can hold up to 100 people providing a flexible and adaptable community meeting, program or activity space that is both functional and will cater to the needs of the growing community.”
The new Coombs community activity centre is expected to be available for community use by early 2022 or sooner if the fit out can be completed.
The ACT Government will be undertaking an expression of interest process to manage the facility on behalf of the ACT Government with community service organisations encouraged to apply.
Quotes attributable to Molonglo Valley Community Forum
Molonglo Valley Community Forum (MVCF) member Monique Brouwer is pleased with the announcement as it will provide a place for the community to meet and for social connection, which is vital to the wellbeing of residents.
“We are thrilled with this announcement. Valued members of the community alerted us to this vacant activity centre late last year. The Forum has engaged in discussions with the community and local members, and is pleased to see the activation of this space,” said Mrs Brouwer.
“I look forward to seeing local children and families, social, cultural, and community groups utilise the centre. Importantly, the Forum will have a regular booking for meetings and storage, which has been a barrier to establishing a community council in the Molonglo Valley.”
“MVCF Interim Spokesperson Ryan Hemsley acknowledged the commitment of the ACT Government and Minister Steel in acquiring a five-year lease of the premises.
“We thank the ACT Government and Minister Steel for listening to the needs of the Molonglo Valley community and finding a temporary facility while we await the purpose-built Coombs Community Centre."
- Statement ends -
Chris Steel, MLA | Media Releases