Progress towards a new performing and cultural precinct has reached a critical new stage.
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But the planners believe they have a very persuasive proposal.
With an aim of securing state and federal funding within the next 12 months, the plan has been carefully detailed to maintain momentum, Tamworth Regional Council's Peter Ross said.
He said today he was "extremely thrilled" to be able to unveil the concept designs, part of the business case that will go before next week's council meeting then out on public display.
It is supported by in-depth talks with key stakeholders, an analysis of current arts and cultural activities, and demographic research.
There have also been comparisons with similar Australian facilities and extensive financial modelling, Mr Ross said.
"It gives us the documentation to take to the state and federal governments to show we've really done our due diligence."
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The estimated cost is $128.2 million from demolition to doors opening, and it's expected to create hundreds of jobs during construction and 11 new permanent jobs long-term.
It is set to go to tender in October 2022 and take 26 months to build.
More planning was being done on car parking: "a multi-storey car park would be considered at the rear of the building", but "that's not part of the budget for this".
Along with large regional facilities such as the Northern Inland Centre for Sporting Excellence, Mr Ross said the precinct would give "new residents and professionals ... the confidence that you can have that big-city experience [here]".
Its versatility - particularly for conferences - gave it "the potential to be the tipping point ... to really activate this part of town".
"Arts and cultural events and activities, especially in difficult times, offer a chance for social cohesion, a coming together of community, escapism, reflection and pure entertainment," he said.
"It's a huge investment not only for people today but our children and their children."