WSHS making moves on new project

WSHS is moving ahead with its multi-purpose hall and staff car park project.

By Dominique Tassell

Warwick State High School is moving ahead with its multi-purpose hall and staff car park project.

A spokesperson for the Department of Education stated that “the Queensland Government is investing $6.3 million to deliver a new multi-purpose hall at Warwick State High School as part of the Great Schools, Great Futures policy. A project to provide equitable access to existing amenities at the school is included as part of this investment.

“This project is being delivered within the School Halls Program, a $258 million investment over four years to build new halls and performing arts centres, including extensions to existing facilities, in Queensland state schools.

“The new hall includes a multi-purpose court area, stage, amenities, equipment storage, a kitchen/kiosk and staff facilities. The design incorporates new heritage bricks sourced from a local supplier to match the existing school heritage buildings. Formalised car parking will be provided as part of the design and operation of the facility.

Ms Joy Craig, Warwick State High School Principal, stated that “Warwick SHS welcomes the news of a new purpose-built facility which will ensure all-our students will have enhanced access to curriculum offerings.”

“It is anticipated that this facility will complement our existing infrastructure and is welcome news for our vibrant regional community.

“We look forward to sharing more exciting news regarding this facility as plans formalise in coming months.“

Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) resolved to make a submission regarding the project at their recent Ordinary Council Meeting.

The submission will be in relation to building setbacks, building height, car park setback, waste storage and collection, landscaping, car parking, and traffic issues in Victoria Street.

Cr Cynthia McDonald stated in the meeting that it’s a “fantastic development”, but did raise concerns about the local heritage-listed house involved.

The land where the heritage-listed building is located has been purchased by the Department of Education.

Staff confirmed in the meeting that the house is being relocated to Mt Colliery.

SDRC previously corresponded with the state government about the project and made requests about the handling of the heritage-listed house’s removal.

They stated they wished the building the remain on the Southern Downs Local Heritage Register and for that to be made clear on the sale of the building.

SDRC also requested that the Department undertake archival recording of the building, inclusive of an archival quality photographic record of its features.

They also sought clarification on whether the building can be relocated without compromising the structural and architectural integrity of the building.

SDRC further requested that an expression of interest be conveyed to the local community to allow the opportunity for the building to remain within the locality of Warwick, or otherwise the Southern Downs region.

They further asked that should the residence be relocated within a town or village, that it is landscaped in a manner which is complementary and compatible to the building and address the street in a positive manner.

SDRC also requested that an informative plaque is to be provided along the frontage of the site to acknowledge the location of the Local heritage place and where it was originally sited.

Cr Andrew Gale said he thought it was a “fabulous project,” but expressed concerns over the divided campus and students crossing Victoria Road.

He suggested installing an under or overpass.

The road is very busy with heavy vehicles, he said, and it sends “shivers down his spine” as a road safety advocate.

Cr Gale Spoke about building up instead of out and asked SDRC staff to address the safety concerns regarding the project.

Cr Gale moved the motion, seconded by Cr Marco Gliori.

Regarding these safety concerns, the spokesperson for the Department of Education stated that “students will utilise the existing pedestrian crossing across Victoria Street to access the new hall”.

“This crossing is currently utilised by students to access the tennis courts, the sports oval and associated sporting facilities.”

When asked if the school could apply for the recently announced funding for the School Transport Infrastructure Program for the project, the spokesperson stated they would look into applying for it in the near future.