CONSTRUCTION could begin next year on a $2-million multi-arts space at Speers Point capable of hosting national and international shows.
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Lake Macquarie City Council has worked with the University of Newcastle to adapt concept designs by architecture student Samantha Bailey for the first multi-arts space of its kind in Australia.
The facility would take pride of place at the end of Speers Point Park's promenade under a development application lodged recently.
Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser said the new facility, to be known as MAP (Multi-Arts Place), would be a focal point for arts and culture in the Hunter Region.
"Designed as a platform for creatives, this impressive structure will become a regional destination for outdoor performances such as theatre productions, concerts and opera," Cr Fraser said.
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Minister for the Arts Don Harwin congratulated the council on the project, which received a $1.35-million grant through the state government's Regional Cultural Fund.
"This stunning facility will allow national and international artists to exhibit alongside beautiful Lake Macquarie," Mr Harwin said.
"I can't wait to visit once the project is complete."
Council's arts, culture and tourism manager, Jacqui Hemsley, said that with more than 400,000 people visiting Speers Point Park annually, MAP would become a destination in the city for arts and music lovers.
"This contemporary, technologically sophisticated and flexible creative space in such a popular and attractive location will be an ideal stepping-stone for emerging and nationally renowned artists," Ms Hemsley said.
Ms Bailey's concept design was one of dozens submitted by students from the University of Newcastle's School of Architecture and Built Environment in a design competition last year.
Ms Hemsley said Ms Bailey's design stood out for its creativity, its understanding of the brief, and its potential relationship with the surrounding landscape.
Pending approval, construction is expected to begin mid-2020.
The project is funded by the state government and Lake Macquarie City Council.
