The Central Otago District Council at a meeting last month decided it would knock down the hall and look to proceed with a new venue with a price tag of more than $40 million.
The council said the decision to demolish the hall had been met with enthusiasm by the Cromwell RSA.
The new hall would be the new home for the RSA.
RSA president Denis Ryan said the hall stood as a testament to the sacrifices and achievement of past generations.
"While the RSA appreciates the important role that the hall has played in the lives of many in the community since it was built in 1958, especially to our own members, they are ready to bid good riddance to the building," he said.
"Our members have been involved in the engagement process from the beginning and we’re pleased to see evidence that change is under way."
Treasured RSA photos and memorabilia had been locked away in storage since the building was closed last year due to earthquake strengthening requirements.
Moving into the new facility would allow these items to be on display once again and be accessible to the entire community, not just those connected with the RSA.
"It’s no good locked away in drawers.
"Those memories need to be shared to keep those who have sacrificed for our country front of mind," Mr Ryan said.
Mr Ryan and RSA vice-president Michael Carroll were looking forward to moving into a space that served their group and the larger community.
While many people were nostalgic about attending Anzac events at the hall, "the prospect of a new facility that will attract residents and visitors year-round, allowing our stories to be told to a broader audience, is definitely appealing", Mr Carroll said.
The proposed community space, auditorium, cafe, museum and display opportunities that would create an environment where there would be something for everyone was just what the town needed, he said.
The construction of a new facility was something the RSA had been excited about for a long time but it believed it would never happen.
There was a sense of urgency for RSA members, Mr Carroll said.
"We must move quickly because we’re all getting older."
Council property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson said with Cromwell the fastest growing community in Central Otago District, construction of a multi-purpose centre would address current and future growth projections.
"The RSA is one of many groups who will make this centre their new home.
"We’re looking forward to advancing this project to give the community a new fit for purpose and future-proof facility that they can be proud of."
Planning for a farewell ceremony to the former Cromwell Memorial Hall is under way.
