Gordon Ward asset sales, St Ives levy flagged for future infrastructure funding

Ku-ring-gai Council has identified possible Gordon Ward asset sales and a future rates levy for the St Ives basketball courts as funding avenues, while making no new charge or sale on 10 August. The levy would be considered only after the existing loan is fully paid.

The funding discussion followed a unanimous decision to begin preparatory and site-establishment work immediately at Marian Street Theatre. Physical internal demolition required to preserve development approval DA 0144/20 can proceed only if $100,000 is transferred to Council accounts from the Save Marian Street Public Fund by Wednesday 12 August or earlier.

The preservation work would keep the approval usable, but does not commit Council to reviving Marian Street Theatre. Councillors noted the project’s substantial cost and limited funding options, and ordered a future report with at least three ways to fund and deliver performing-arts infrastructure in Gordon Ward.

The options will include Marian Street Theatre, Gordon Civic Hub, or both. Funding sources can include Gordon Ward asset sales and other avenues. The report will follow the Community and Cultural Facilities Strategy update and the Federal Thriving Suburbs Round 2 outcome, both expected in mid-2027.

Recommendations on asset sales, the St Ives basketball courts levy and other funding avenues are to be presented in March 2027 or through the stated future funding processes.

The Save Marian Street Public Fund says it has raised enough to assist with the estimated $100,000 preservation cost. Council has not confirmed that the money has been received. Preparatory work can begin immediately, but the physical demolition will not begin if the full amount is not received by 12 August.