Panel set to study arts centre plan

KNOX City Council has reconfirmed its intention to go ahead with a major performing arts centre subject to a rigorous cost-benefit evaluation.
The council announced recently that such a centre fits into its vision for the future under its Knox Central Urban Design Framework and Arts Plan.
An opportunity exists to create a centrally located theatre within the Knox City Shopping Centre and O-Zone area, identified in Melbourne 2030 as Knox’s principal activity centre.
Taylor Ward councillor Tony Kamitsis, who sits on the Knox Community Arts Centre Steering Committee, said the council had recently formed a steering committee to consider the feasibility of a Knox Performing Arts Centre.
“This will include providing advice on its possible location within the precinct, financial implications and project timeframes,” he said.
The Knox Performing Arts Steering Committee comprises Cr Kamitsis and Baird Ward councillor Jim Penna, as well the mayor of the day and council officers.
Cr Penna said it was important that the council carry out a rigorous cost-benefit evaluation of the whole project to ensure its financial feasibility.
“This should not only entail a further assessment of the potential use of the centre by the community, but also an investigation into the financial contributions that the State and Federal governments and the private sector would be prepared to make so as to minimise council’s own capital contribution and ongoing costs,” he said.
Subject to a satisfactory outcome of the feasibility study, the council could proceed to the next stage of development.
“It could become a thriving destination for entertainment, social activities and creative expression that the whole community can benefit from,” Cr Kamitsis said.