FROM AMBULANCE STATION TO CULTURAL CENTRE
01 Jul 2021
This former NSW ambulance station will soon become a vibrant city hub.
20 years ago, this Forbes based ambulance station in New South Wales was ravaged by two separate fires which were deliberately lit. The extensive damage to the building rendered the space unoccupied since 2001, however, it might soon have a new lease on life.
The Forbes Arts Society purchased the Forbes and District Ambulance Station in December 2019 and have been working closely with Source Architects to develop the building into a cultural and arts centre for the community to enjoy.
Sally Sutherland from Source Architects explained that the detailed design phase had been a balancing act between preserving the old and incorporating the new. With much of the fabric destroyed, the team would like to reinstate as much of the exterior as possible to tie in with the heritage streetscape. There are plans however for the new second storey to have modern and metal cladding which will act like a curtain veil.
Within the building, a double height void has been designed in the foyer to expose the original skeleton of the structure. The new design will also include sustainable features, will be fully accessible and have a beautiful courtyard.
Forbes Arts Society chair Karen Ritchie said the aim was to develop “a space that encourages locals and visitors to create, share and experience art and culture as well as meet, gather and connect with one another.”
The development application process for the building is nearing completion and construction tender submissions close early this month. For more information, head to forbesartssociety.com.