Community centre repairs to fix ‘sagging’ theatre roof

• Published date: 04 November 2021
• Publication title: Clutha Leader

The West Otago Community Centre was completed in 1990 at a cost of $1.2million and, after 30 years of busy use, a problematic roof will be replaced, beginning with the performing arts theatre wing.

Centre treasurer Hans van der Linden said stage 1 of the overhaul was focused on the theatre, with an estimated cost of $400,000 to $450,000 including internal and external repairs and maintenance, and upgrading of lighting and technical facilities.

‘‘The main problem is the roof, which is worst in the flatter areas. We’ve put that much silicone into it over the years you’d have thought we’d waterproofed the whole place, but it won’t stay fixed.’’

The roof was also ‘‘sagging’’ over the theatre, so steel beams would be upgraded to re-pitch and strengthen the structure, he said.

Leaks also affected the main hall’s basketball court, and were causing issues in other areas, such as the squash courts.

Upgrades budgeted to about $1.1million would be completed over a 10-year period.

‘‘The West Otago Community Centre makes an income of about $45,000 per annum covering total operating costs of about $35,000.

‘‘The management committee has always been frugal, spending about $3000 to $4000 per year on basic upkeep, excluding major jobs like exterior repainting.’’

Mr van der Linden thanked...