Katoomba High students are working with Blue Mountains Council to plan for Katoomba Town Centre and the Civic Centre redevelopment, as part of their geography studies.
Staff met with 100 Katoomba High School students at the old Katoomba Library building over two days in February, presenting students with the Katoomba master plan and plans for the Civic Centre. Students also conducted their own project work on site.
Teacher Ruby Ladd said: "One hundred Year 9 students at Katoomba High School are part of a creative design project to activate the Katoomba Civic Centre. Senior students have already been a part of the reference group for the master plan and now as part of the Geography curriculum on Changing Places, Year 9 students are working with planning principles as shared by the council's urban designers and planners to contribute to the design process."
Mayor Mark Greenhill said council was proud to have taken the initiative to liaise directly with students and genuinely involve them in this project.
"We can show students the potential the centre has in terms of design and activation and they communicate to us what is desirable and exciting."
Council has secured three grants for upgrades to Katoomba Town Centre. All will improve the overall look and functionality of the town, while boosting business and the arts.
The Revitalisation of Katoomba Civic Centre is funded by a $1.5 million grant from the Building Better Regions Fund, with 50 per cent of the project funds provided by council. The scope is being finalised with the Federal government.
Learn more about the Katoomba Masterplan at https://yoursay.bmcc.nsw.gov.au/katoomba-masterplan.
