Now it comes down to a planning panel’s decision next Thursday to help make it a reality.

Cr Kirk was speaking about Goulburn proposed $12.1 million performing arts facility.

On Friday, he said he was “delighted to inform the community” that Goulburn Mulwaree Council had “now” secured $3 million in grant funding for the project. It was the same amount announced at a public meeting in May. 

But it hangs on the Southern Joint Regional Planning Panel’s decision at a meeting this Thursday. The council, which hopes to convert the McDermott Centre into a 400-seat performance centre, is recommending conditional approval.

Cr Kirk said the council had also secured Office of Environment and Heritage approval for excavation works. Further, a recently completed feasibility study had identified “a clear gap in service provision for performing arts spaces within the Goulburn region.”

With the federal government already coming to the party with a $1 million grant, the Mayor is calling on the State to also kick in funds.

Goulburn MP Pru Goward is working with the council on a $3 million application to the Regional Cultural Fund.

“Our application fits perfectly within the criteria for this fund and we are shovel ready,” Cr Kirk said in a statement on Friday.

“I am excited that this Performing Arts Centre becomes a joint venture from a funding perspective between federal government, state government, the private sector and the council.

“Let’s not forget that the sale proceeds ($800,000 including interest) from the Lilac Time Hall have been saved specifically for this new facility.” 

“...Once the planning process is complete, and the state government, which has been so positive to date, considers our application, I believe the Performing Arts Centre will become an iconic asset to our fabulous city.” 

The council is seeking planning control variations on parking provision and building height in the development application. The arts venue is relying on off-street parking and an added rear section to the building is estimated to stand 21.7 metres high, 6.7m higher than the development standard.

Conditions call for a conservation plan to be submitted before work starts and for a traffic management plan before the building is occupied.

A panel, chaired by former State Environment Minister Pam Allan, will meet this Thursday, July 27 to decide the project. 

The hearing is open to the public. Those wishing to speak at the meeting must register by 4pm on Tuesday, July 25 by contacting the Planning Panel’s Secretariat on (02) 8217 2060 or email enquiry@planningpanels.nsw.gov.au