The long-standing problem of access to the rear of the James Theatre has been solved by a remarkable piece of community co-operation.
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Since the construction of the drain along the western side of the Theatre many years ago followed by the installation of much-needed air-conditioning in the Theatre in about 2004, no vehicle larger than a utility truck has been able to access to the rear of the theatre due to the constriction of the width of the laneway by the drain and the air conditioners.
Other than leaving the theatre without air conditioning and essential drainage, the only solution to the problem was for the theatre to acquire an additional 600mm of land from the adjoining landowner in order to restore the laneway to its original width.
This originally daunting task was undertaken by Lisa Connors of the Friends of the James Theatre who was amazed at the level of community support for the project that emerged.
The valuation was supplied by local firm, Brorson Hill Valuations free of charge, as was survey work done by local surveyor Graeme Ferguson.
The legal work was all undertaken by a local firm of solicitors, also at no cost.
Dungog Council, general manager Craig Deasey and all the councillors supported the proposal and found the necessary funds to pay for the acquisition of the land.
Chairperson of the Friends of the James Theatre Lisa Connors said most importantly of all, the affected landowner agreed to sell the land to enable the project to proceed.
“As with all such projects, it has taken some time to bring it to fruition,” Ms Connors said.
“The valuation and survey work being completed and the legal work almost so, council will soon be in a position to commence the physical widening of the access road to complete the project.
“The level of community support for this project and the generosity of those who have provided their services has been nothing short of amazing.
“We are also incredibly grateful for the support of the councillors and Mr Deasey, without which no solution would have been possible.
“It is wonderful to see the community working together to solve what was a long-standing and serious issue for the James Theatre.”