The Queenstown Lakes District Council intends to demolish the building to make way for a new arterial route into the resort centre, as part of its long-term plan.
Last week, the council announced it would be using a portion of the $1.2million grant from the Government’s Provincial Development Unit to upgrade the building and the Otago Daily Times has learnt these works will cost $262,284.
Council spokesman Jack Barlow said that the earliest the building would be demolished was 2027 and so it had to remain in good condition.
"Most of the upgrades are quick wins that will ensure a nicer facility until the building gets replaced."
The interior wall and ceiling will be given a lick of paint, eco-friendly LED lighting will be installed, as will a new entrance mat, and there will be upgrades to the vinyl floor, stage and supper room.
The council also approved upgrades — to be paid for by the grant — at the Arrowtown Athenaeum Hall ($285,651), Lake Hayes Pavilion ($364,289) and Lake Wanaka Centre ($280,407).
Works, including boiler upgrades, air conditioning, paintwork and lighting, are to be completed by the end of January next year.
