Library plans for RSL collection

Plans for the extension of Woy Woy library would include space for the RSL collection of war memorabilia currently housed in a shopfront at Ettalong, if the Woy Woy Village Renewal Committee has its way.
"At present, there is no permanent home for this collection, a situation the committee finds disgraceful," said Cr Lynne Bockholt.
"We believe every effort should be made to incorporate the RSL items, remembering that 10 per cent of local men served in war and it is important given the increasing promotion of Anzac Day that this collection be looked after.
She said the committee supported recommendations from the National Trust that Gosford Council obtain the services of a recognised conservation architect to compile a Conservation Management Plan for the site.
"It is imperative that the heritage values of the building be retained," she said.
The document would explain the significance of the heritage of the site and would propose policies to retain that significance.
The Trust has suggested that, with this as a guideline, an architectural firm with both heritage and contemporary design skills would be required to design the extensions.
The Trust has advised it is willing to comment on any proposed plans and to assist in an advisory capacity.
Cr Bockholt said the committee wanted the Woy Woy Neighbourhood Centre retained within the Fire Station building adjacent to the library.
"The group does sterling work," she said.
It saw the library as being at the heart of a "Woy Woy Town Square" and any new design should take this into account.
She said the council's Oval Avenue offices, next to the library, could be moved to a shopfront to allow for library extensions.