Foundation plaque to mark development of Dennis Johnson Community Library at Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The development of the Dennis Johnson Branch Library as part of the $8.9M Stage 2 development of Blacktown Leisure Centre, Stanhope (BLCS), Sentry Drive, Stanhope Gardens is underway and will be commemorated by the laying of a foundation plaque on Wednesday, September 3, 2008 at 10am.
In addition to the 1,200 square metre Dennis Johnson Library, new facilities and services are also being developed to form the overall redevelopment of the BLCS and include an extension to the existing gym, squash court, parents' room, extended car park, and much more.
Dennis Johnson served as Blacktown City Council's Town Clerk from 1984-1993 and as Council's inaugural General Manager 1993 to 1996.
The Dennis Johnson Library will feature an integrated community foyer, a children's storytelling area, youth lounge, technology area, a drive thru book drop off point, forecourt and plaza area.
Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Leo Kelly, OAM said the new Library is well positioned to service the increasing needs of this rapidly developing area of Blacktown City.
"Stanhope Gardens is at the centre of an area that is continuing to rapidly expand, areas like Rouse Hill, Kellyville Ridge, Acacia Gardens, The Ponds, Glenwood, Parklea and Schofields will benefit a great deal with the addition of the new Library," Mayor of Blacktown City, Councillor Leo Kelly said.
"I am particularly pleased that the development will also utilise environmental design aspects, with the library utilising sustainable design principles such as low energy light fittings, use of rainwater in the amenities and irrigation, and maximum use of natural light and ventilation," Mayor Kelly said.
Since opening to the public in 2003, BLCS has welcomed over 5 million visitors and enjoyed a string of accolades following many local and national awards.
The overall development is expected to be completed in mid 2009 and is being undertaken in stages to enable the centre to continue to operate with minimal inconvenience to patrons.
