Rupanyup Community Library Precinct Project Update

Published on 20 October 2023

Update: October 2023

Council has appointed Onley’s Holdings Pty Ltd from Donald to undertake the upgrade of the old Shire Building in Cromie Street Rupanyup. The initial plans and tender documentation included an external pergola and extension of amenities at the rear of the building. Due to the rising cost of materials and contractor costs, the tender had to be re-scoped to bring the project back into budget. The Councillors have committed further funds to the project to ensure the building is revitalized to accommodate a new library, community meeting and makers space. The building will also accommodate in venue childcare, with a carer available and ready to commence once the building works are complete and has been approved for in venue care services. The building will have separate areas to enable library/community spaces to be utilised whilst in venue care is operating. Areas will be secure, so there will be no cross over between children and the community.

Council will be landscaping the site, and will have a provision for disability parking. We will also be exploring the option of self-serve library service being available from the building, with the trial currently underway in Warracknabeal. The building will be installed with electronic access control via a card system, removing accessing the building via a key system.

The cladding/bricks on the outside of the building will need to be removed, as it is coming away from the walls making it unsafe and a hazard. The glue behind the brick cladding contains asbestos. This means the fireman mural will be removed.

Council understands the mural is important to the community, and a cement sheeting area will be available as part of the renovations, on the exterior of the building for a new artwork to be commissioned. We request that the community consider whether the fireman mural should be replicated, or if another image should be considered. We will work with the Rupanyup Progress Association to decide on the final artwork design. The Community is encouraged to attend the Progress Meetings where this will be discussed as part of their Agenda item. Please submit ideas and suggestions to Carmel Healy, Chairperson Rupanyup Progress Association via rupprogress@gmail.com.