Work has begun to transform Logan's Kingston Butter Factory into a vibrant cultural heritage and performing arts hub.
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The $16.1 million transformation began today, with Logan mayor Darren Power joining local government minister Stirling Hinchliffe and MP Shannon Fentiman at the site.
It comes after council abandoned plans for a $6 million innovation hub at the site last year.
Council is redeveloping the precinct and its grounds, with the building's interior also getting re-worked.
Cr Power said the venue would be a significant addition to south-east Queensland's tourism infrastructure.
"Having such a large outdoor space that can attract major events and festivals will bring massive economic benefits to Logan," Cr Power said.
"It will be a space the whole community can enjoy, where they can access world-class arts, culture, festivals and events."
City Lifestyle Committee chair, Laurie Koranski, said community feedback had endorsed council's decision to redevelop the building.
"Results of a community survey in November last year overwhelmingly supported council's proposal for KBF," Cr Koranski said.
"The KBF Cultural Precinct will be a place where people will come together in ways that connect, entertain and inspire."
Cr Power welcomed recent funding of $6.57 million from the state government's COVID Works Queensland program towards the project.
"Infrastructure and jobs are critical for the community and our city in these challenging times," he said.
"This is a great example of state and local government working together to deliver important social infrastructure for the community while creating jobs.
"We want to come out of this pandemic stronger than ever, and the best way to do that is to work together."
Cr Power said council would redirect part of its original budget allocation of $12 million into other areas to be determined.
Mr Hinchliffe said it was the first time council has had access to the Works for Queensland program.
"The pandemic has landed a major blow on economies around the world, and that includes right here in Logan," he said.
"To that end, the redevelopment of the butter factory will support or create about 150 jobs and, once it's up and running, even more with investment in restaurants and other small businesses in the area."
Waterford MP Mrs Fentiman said once completed the KBF Precinct would feature the city's largest outdoor events space, with a purpose-built stage and room for audiences of up to 5000.
"The whole space is being transformed - it will feature a blackbox-style theatre, rehearsal space and a living museum to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Logan, a community that I'm so proud to be a part of," she said.
"This project is going to be a game-changer for local artists and I'm excited to see it transform into an arts and entertainment hub for the Logan community."
The project will be delivered by Box & Co builders and work is expected to be completed by February next year.
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