Cr Gair’s proposal, outlined in a Mayoral Minute to Wednesday’s meeting, includes a cultural centre and gardens at the old Skin Shed site at the corner of Kangaloon and Old South Road.

Landscape designers Chris and Charlotte Webb have prepared a concept landscape plan for the site, including display gardens, a sensory garden, sculpture garden and seasonal display garden.

Bowral resident Paul Ramsey, head of the Ramsey Property Group, has offered to commission concept drawings for the community centre from architects Marchese Partners International, at no cost to Council.

In his Mayoral Minute, Cr Gair said he had believed for some time that Wingecarribee Shire needed a community cultural centre.

“I stress this plan is just that - a long-term concept plan to give us a goal to aim at,” he said.

“We don’t have funds at this stage, but we do have an idea and we do have a large parcel of suitable land.

“I believe if we can get community support for this project and have a plan to work towards, something really good can be achieved for the Wingecarribee community.”

Cr Gair said the project would need external funds, possibly from the Federal and State Government, developer contributions and philanthropic gifts, but before funding could be sought Council needed a plan.

“I believe that once we have a long-term plan in place, there is no reason why we can’t immediately begin working towards the ultimate vision by starting the landscape plantings to create a superb recreational space linking with the existing cycle tracks and ponds that adjoin this land,” he said.

“The buildings could come later, providing funding can be sourced.”

Cr Gair said the site could also become another significant Tulip Time garden, in addition to Corbett Gardens.

“We are open to suggestions from anyone about this concept,” he said.

“As Paul Kelly wrote, ‘from little things big things grow’ and unless you have an idea, then a plan, nothing will happen.

“So I offer these concept plans to stimulate discussion in the community about using this land as a future cultural centre and botanic gardens for Wingecarribee Shire.”

Wingecarribee Council will consider a recommendation that the concept plan for the community cultural centre be exhibited for public comment.

Earlier this month, actress Geraldine Turner announced plans for a multi-arts festival to start in 2011, with proceeds to be used to build a theatre complex with café, gallery and community meeting space.