Major milestone reached for Bruce Community Facility in Milton
A much-anticipated milestone has been reached, with Council awarding a $17.75M physical works contract to Calder Stewart for construction of the Bruce community facility.
‘The Elsie Stewart Community Library and Pool’, named in honour of the late Mrs Stewart’s outstanding contributions to the community, is designed to be a place for everyone. The facility will offer a wide range of services all year round for the greater Milton and Bruce community from swimming lessons and competitions through to digital help, library programmes and celebrating local history. It will be a central point for connection, knowledge, health and leisure.
As decided in Council’s December 2024 decision meeting, the approved budget of $19.4M covers all aspects of the overall project including construction and carparking and includes $6.4M of grants and other funding, leaving $13M to be funded by rates. Council decided that this $13M will be interest-only for a period of 2 years to reduce the rates impact.
Mayor Bryan Cadogan said he was beyond thrilled to see such a defining project nearing the construction stages.
“We have strived to hold true to the 64% of Bruce residents that supported this project under extremely trying pressure.” said Mayor Cadogan.
“This project is a cornerstone for Milton’s future, one that will define the wider district and add even more vibrancy to Milton’s revitalised main street.
“I want to sincerely thank the Bruce Communities Facilities Trust and the fundraising committee for their ongoing passion and commitment to the cause, and it is fitting that Elsie Stewart’s lifelong contribution to her Bruce community is recognised.”
Calder Stewart are looking forward to working alongside Council and the Trust on this design build lead project, and are committed to ensuring it is successfully delivered, to serve the community long into the future.
The Bruce Communities Facilities Trust are also playing a key part in funding the project, with a commitment to raising $2M in funds for the project.
Fundraising Committee Chairman, Stephen Woodhead, said it is fantastic to have the certainty that the project will proceed.
“For the Trust, it means we can move to the next stage of fundraising. We are looking forward to continuing to work with community and funding agencies as we move towards raising the $2M target; the community's contribution to this amazing facility.” Mr Woodhead said.
“The opportunity that a fit-for-purpose community library and pool offers our district is truly exciting.”
The project is in the process of obtaining the necessary consents, and it is anticipated that demolition of the current building will not commence until January 2026. Demolition work will be completed by Andrew Haulage, another local business involved in this community-driven project.
Toko Training will be relocating to their new premise in mid December, and the Milton Community library will be temporarily relocated to the Coronation Hall.
