THE multi-million dollar refurbishment of the chapel and multi-purpose centre (or Dorothy Knox Centre) at Prebysterian Ladies’ College Armidale is nearing completion.
Builders from Best Practice Constructions Pty Ltd have been hard at work, and aim to have the facility completed before the end of third term.
The transformation of the chapel into the newly named Astra Arts Centre is part of PLC Armidale’s 10-year master plan and will offer current, future students and the wider community an expanded performance area and foyer.
Once complete, the facility will enable a greater seating capacity increasing from 137 to 342 seats as well as expanding its foyer size from 47 square metres to 115 square metres. This facility also has the added benefit of being attached to the school’s Hospitality Centre, which includes a large commercial kitchen and dining space.
“PLC Armidale has a rich and proud history of achievement in the performing arts area,” Head of School, Mrs Debra Kelliher said.
“We needed to renovate our existing chapel and Dorothy Knox Centre in order to provide a better facility to showcase PLC excellence.
“Our students and staff have enjoyed outstanding success recently at the annual Armidale Eisteddfod, and this facility will provide them with an inspirational space in which to practice and perform in the future.”
The renovation has been funded through a combination of a Federal Government block grant, college funds as well as generous donations from the college’s active foundation and school community.
PLC Armidale is also conducting a number of fund-raising events to assist with the completion of the project.
The official opening of the new re-development, Astra Arts Centre, is expected to take place late in first term next year.
