THE Retro Youth Cafe will move from Burrows House to the Albury Library Museum’s section fronting QEII Square.
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City councillors unanimously endorsed the relocation last night in front of a packed gallery of young people including youth council members.
They agreed to spend $145,000 on the shift.
Burrows House is being incorporated into the art gallery redevelopment due to start in the new year.
The cafe will be set up initially in an existing area at the back of the Library Museum.
Later in the year it will be extended into QEII Square — partly where the former parish centre was located — to create more meeting space and a shaded outdoor dining area.
Retro will close from January to March to allow for the fit-out of a small commercial kitchen and to establish computer benches as part of stage one works.
Stage two should take another six months.
Mayor Kevin Mack, who has worked closely with youth as a Victorian policeman, welcomed the council’s support of the relocation.
“I’m passionate about addressing youth issues in our city and I’m proud we’ve been able to deliver this for Albury’s young people,” he said.
“This is a great outcome and will make sure young people can continue enjoying a centrally- located facility dedicated to youth-based programs, workshops, events and activities.
“The central location and proximity to transport links makes this the ideal outcome for our young people.”
The council will trial new operating hours for 12 months, Tuesday to Friday 10am to 6pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm.
City staff will operate the cafe short-term pending a suitable lease-partnership.
The council plans a restaurant for the larger gallery, also on the square.
