Designs have been revised for a new City Hub on NSW’s South Coast following public submissions after the proposal prompted backlash from the community.

Designed by DesignInc and Lacoste + Stevenson architects, the project designs have been adapted since initial concepts were released in October 2013.

Public submissions for the new $57 million Shellharbour City Hub development application have closed.

While the application was exhibited some 8,000 people signed a community petition, ‘Stop The Hub’ (STH).

The STH website highlights the Hub’s location, mobility access and cost as key issues that warrant addressing.  

 “The Community does not want this appallingly located $50+ million extravagant building when there are many more urgent needs within the communities which comprise the City,” reads the STH’s letter to Premier Mike Baird.

“It's on a hill so the construction costs are millions more, access terrible for the mobility impaired and the public transport poor.”

Three potential designs of the Hub were released by DesignInc architects back in October 2013, they were called the Shell, Escarpment and Wave. Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said that changes to the proposals since their initial release, were based on public feedback and other factors – including cost.

The Council released new images of the multi-purpose community and civic facility, which will be located at the corner of College and Cygnet avenues in Shellharbour City Centre.

The development includes a city library and museum, civic square, auditorium, community and sessional meeting rooms, cafe, council chambers and new staff administration centre. 

The civic square at the front of the complex has been increased to 2000sqm and includes green space and water features. It will cater for community events including concerts and market stalls

The community lobby area has also grown and has a more centralised 350-seat auditorium. The lobby can be opened up onto the civic square and provides views over the green corridor.

The new design includes more direct access for the library to the civic square, and its shape has been changed to ensure it takes advantage of the building’s views.
The museum and café are also now integrated into the library.

The design includes a designated bus stop on College Avenue and bus drop-off points on Cygnet Avenue. 

A council concept design report says the project will aim to achieve Design and As Built 5 Star ratings under the GBCA Public Building Tool