A COMMUNITY reference group met with architects this week to continue planning the design of the city’s potential $40m indoor sports and recreation centre for a funding proposal.
DesignInc Adelaide and architectural partner Co-Op Studio Melbourne shared their project vision at the Mount Gambier Civic Centre on Tuesday night as part of efforts to design a facility reflecting the character and needs of the region.
“The architects outlined their aim to design a facility that caters for the physical, cultural and inter-generational needs of our community,” Mount Gambier Mayor Andrew Lee said.
“They will seek a sustainable outcome which balances competing social, economic and environmental factors and incorporates adaptable spaces to facilitate the diverse and changing needs of the community.”
Twelve members of the Mount Gambier Regional Sport and Recreation Centre Community Reference Group were present to provide feedback at the meeting, representing local schools, swim clubs, allied health care providers, sporting clubs and other community groups.
Councillors and the reference group collaborated to provide their thoughts on what the proposed community facility should incorporate.
“Some key themes emerged throughout our discussions, including safety, child protection and a central and visible creche,” Mr Lee said.
“Further specific needs were identified for school groups and those in our community with access issues.”
The brainstorming session also focused on the flow of the indoor and outdoor space and use of the facility for activities other than sport.
“There was a suggestion the show court be swapped so that netball courts are closer to the outdoor courts,” Mr Lee explained.
“The facility will require flexibility in modes of operation and court usage and line marking must be considered.
“We also need to consider aspects such as acoustics, the set-up of lighting and staging, interactive displays and galleries, the function space and the location of the cafe.”
Second stage designs are expected to be completed in the next few weeks.
