Armidale Secondary College construction inspected as $10.4 million multi-purpose centre is built

The multi-purpose centre will be the icing on the cake of the $121 million Armidale Secondary College development, providing a space, available for the community to use, which unites the performing arts and sport together under one roof.

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"As was the case with the main Armidale Secondary College build, it has been incredible to witness the vast structure take shape rapidly over the first quarter of this year," Mr Marshall said.

"As everyone can see from Kentucky Street, the multi-purpose centre's structural steel work is complete and building is progressing on the roof re-sheeting and stormwater works."

With the external walls in place, the internal electrical, hydraulic and mechanical fit-out, to accommodate performances is happening at a rapid rate.

The next stage of works include external wall cladding and the sheeting of the internal walls and ceiling.

"Outside, the concrete pathways and sheeting to the entry awning will be put down in coming months," Mr Marshall said.

"I congratulate the contractors who have continued to chip-away at the project despite the incredible amount of wet weather we have experienced."

After the meger of Armidale and Duval high schools was announced, a performing arts centre, which would service the wider community was included in the plans.

In 2017, Armidale Regional Council pledged to provide $1 million over three years, towards a 1000-seat performing arts centre to be constructed on school grounds.

But when the first sod was turned on the school's construction in 2019, the plans did not include the large entertainment facility.

Ian Tiley, who was the council administrator when the $1 million committment was made, later explained the council stipulated the funding would only be paid if the centre had seating for 1000, could be used by the community and if the community had input into its design.

When none of these terms were reached, the council dropped the funding.

In June last year, funding for a multi-purpose hall at Armidale Secondary College was included in the state budget.

"If the current rate of progress continues construction should be complete by the middle of the year, with the building's fit-out to follow shortly after," Mr Marshall said.

"The school community will be chomping at the bit to have the new hall open and offering somewhere to celebrate the student body's successes throughout the year."

The multi-purpose hall will include generous hall space, stage and seating for performances and school functions, green room, two indoor basketball courts, a fitness and movement studio and two general learning spaces.

It will be capable of comfortably seating almost 2000 people.

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