Situated on the hillside in River Street, the Maclean Civic Hall has been a centre point of local entertainment, hosting many shows, competitions and concerts throughout the years.

And now, the facility is set to be given a new lease on life.

Thanks to funding secured by Clarence Valley Council (CVC) under the Federal and NSW State Government’s Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, Maclean Civic Hall is set for a $5 million makeover.

The refurbishment forms Phase 1 of Council’s Maclean Community Precinct project.

Maclean residents including Little Scottish Town Youth Theatre Group Director Janet Gray and her daughter Isla, met with Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, Member for Clarence Chris Gulaptis and CVC Major Jim Simmons on July 21 for the official announcement.

“This project involves upgrading the kitchen, installing new lighting and sound systems in the auditorium, and providing accessible amenities,” Mr Hogan said, adding it will also boost the local economy and create jobs in the community.

“In addition, existing buildings will be removed to create an outdoor space that connects River Street with the Clarence River.”

Mr Gulaptis said the facilities in the hall are long past their used by date.

“The Civic Hall is a focal meeting point for a range of community activities such as concerts and musicals, eisteddfods and public meetings,” he said.

“The whole community benefits when all three tiers of government work in partnership together to deliver positive outcomes for the local communities they represent.

“This is a long overdue refurbishment project for Maclean, and it will be exciting to see the final makeover.”

CVC Mayor Jim Simmons welcomed the successful funding announcement and said it was great news for the Clarence Valley.

“We’re excited about this project as it will breathe new life into one of Maclean’s most utilised community spaces,” Cr Simmons said.

The Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Package is one part of the $4.5 billion overarching bushfire support program co-funded by the Australian and NSW Governments for bushfire recovery, response and preparedness in NSW.

For further information, visit www.nsw.gov.au/blerfund