Dalby Cultural Centre: Residents asked for input after controversial scrapping of former project

Residents are being asked to have their say on the project formerly known as MyALL 107, after structure failings caused the redevelopment to come to a screeching halt. See all the details here:

Community feedback is being sought on the controversial development of the Dalby Cultural Centre, formerly known as the MyALL 107 facility, after previous developments were cancelled over structural failings.

Western Downs councillor Megan James said the new project would incorporate community’s suggestions and the Western Downs Regional Council had launched a new online platform for residents to have their say.

“This project is not about just replacing MyALL 107. We have the opportunity now to create something even better that will meet the needs of our residents and visitors and add to our region’s liveability for years to come,” she said.

Western Downs residents have been left angered after almost $3 million was lost to the MyALL 107 redevelopment, with many questioning why serious structural issues weren’t uncovered sooner. Photo/WDRC

The facility, which previously was home to a cinema, library and art gallery, began a redevelopment process at the end of last year.

The works ended in disaster with structural failings led to a stop work order in December, with residents left angry and $2.8 million lost.

A WDRC spokeswoman said the difficulties were unavoidable.

“It was not possible for the earlier engineering assessment to have identified the extent of the structural issues hiding within the walls and the roofing of the building, until the lining had been stripped away,” she said.

Cr James said the council recently asked residents how they wanted to receive information on this and similar developments.

“The online engagement platform will act as a place for community interaction, as well as being the trusted place to go to for updates throughout the project,” she said.

MyALL 107 is receiving upgrades from the Building Better Regions Fund.

“We really want people to share ideas they have seen around the world, think about what opportunities we are missing, and what practical needs we have.”

The council’s project team will also discuss plans and ideas with key community and stakeholder groups, including former tenants of MyALL 107.

Residents can have their say at haveyoursay.wdrc.qld.gov.au or phone [phone].