Former Manning Library

The former Manning Library on Manning Road Karawara has been vacant since February 2017 when the new Manning Library opened as part of the Manning Community Hub adjacent to James Miller Oval. Since that time, there have been a number of attempts to identify a suitable alternative use and to find a tenant.

Given the zoning of the land, the City is unable to use the former library for any commercial use and given the building is not in a  suitable condition for leasing due to the presence of asbestos and general deterioration, it was unsuitable for community group tenancy. Due to the cost of refurbishing the building to a suitable standard, council considered the most cost effective option was to demolish the building and give consideration to a new structure as part of the George Burnett Precinct Masterplan.

Background

The former Manning Library was purpose-built in 1964. Officially named the Walter Murdoch Library - Manning Branch, it was in operation until February 2017 when the new Manning Library opened as part of the Manning Community facility.

The site sits within the George Burnett Recreation Precinct (GBR Precinct) and is reserved under the Metropolitan Region Scheme (MRS) and classified as ‘Parks and recreation’ reserve.

The City is in the process of developing a Masterplan for the Precinct to redevelop the George Burnett Leisure Centre and adjacent Recreation Precinct to facilitate sporting and community needs in a coordinated approach.