Queanbeyan Civic and Cultural Precinct is the 'catalyst for transformation of the CBD'

Queanbeyan's performing arts centre, The Q, is also expected to benefit from the project.

The $74.85m project which will include features like connections to the Bicentennial Hall and improved access to The Q theatre, approximately 100 car-space office and public basement parking, and a rooftop garden.

Jordan Best, the Artistic Director/Program Manager at The Q, feels that the new precinct will bring improved accessibility and creative possibilities along with it.

"From sculptors to theatre-makers, you can find everything in Queanbeyan. The city is unique and has a diverse community with a warmth that is hard to find. It is this strength of the community that makes its artists so passionate. With an abundance of talent and stories at our doorstep, The Q is more focused on local than ever," she said.

"The revamp is going to increase the possibilities for live entertainment. With the gorgeous new green space just outside the theatre, one can enjoy a glass of wine, a cheese platter and perhaps a bit of outdoor Shakespeare."

She further said that the new underground car park will help in improving accessibility to the venue.

"There will be connections to both theatres: The Q for theatre and musicals, and The B (The Bicentennial Hall) which has become the new home of live music, comedy and cabaret," she added.

The Bicentennial Hall was established in 1988 and has been the venue for several events including live performances and galas.

Similar views were echoed by community theatre group Queanbeyan Players Inc, which has been bringing plays and musical theatre to the region since 1965.

Vice-president Jenna Hinton feels that with addition of both commercial and community spaces will provide new opportunities for professional and community artists.

"The new spaces will give us more opportunities to host exhibitions and art opportunities for artists across the community. COVID-19 has ravaged arts sector and this sort of investment in the sector will be beneficial," she said.

Meanwhile, Mayor Tim Overall has said that the Queanbeyan Civic and Cultural Precinct is the catalyst for the transformation of the Queanbeyan CBD.

The construction of the Queanbeyan Civic and Cultural Precinct is expected to begin in the coming months and is expected to be completed by end of 2022.

The Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council (QPRC) is in final negotiations with ADCO Constructions to complete the design of the project.