The building that houses Gosford’s library is set to be demolished as part of a revamp of Kibble Park.
The parking beside the library would also go, as would traffic in front of the Imperial Centre main entrance.
The library building, built in 1969, is recognised in the Australian Institute of Architects Register of Significant Buildings in NSW.
A Gosford Council heritage study group in 2013 prepared a heritage listing for this building but the site does not get a mention in Central Coast Council’s 2018 CBD heritage interpretation strategy.
While the library is to be demolished, the nearby old restaurant building will remain, under the plans.
Council says it will be repurposed as a community facility space to accommodate arts, culture and community activities
Traffic along Mortimer Lane would not continue along William St.
The road would end at the end of the lane with only authorised vehicles allowed access.
Taxis servicing the Imperial Centre would enter and exit a shortened William St that would end at the current carpark entrance to the shopping centre.
Between there and Mortimer Lane, the remainder of William St would become pedestrian space with no car access.
Last week, the community and businesses were invited to drop in to look at the latest plans that follow on a draft that the council showed the community in 2021.
Back then, less than 40 per cent (39.5%) of participants endorsed the plan.
Council said at the time that it would prepare concept plans “informed by the feedback received”.
How well have they done?
You can view the results by reading the new plan on the council website: https://www.yourvoiceourcoast.com/kibblepark
In summary, the park has four spaces; an events and gathering space where the library used to be; an eat street area; a multi-functional space; an active space for daily use and green space.
The plans are on public exhibition until April 26.
People can register to participate in a virtual session explaining the concept which will be held on April 6.
Go here to get register for the virtual session: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/kibble-park-place-plan-and-concept-plan-information-session-virtual-tickets-590467563377
The library building would not be demolished until the new regional library is built across the road in Donnison St.
