Omarama has made a quick start to fundraising to turn its hall into a multipurpose community centre, with $280,000 raised towards the $750,000-plus complex.
Earlier this year, the Omarama Residents' Association, which is leading the project, finalised the plans for the major upgrade and has let a contract, subject to obtaining funding, to southern-based company Amalgamated Builders Ltd, for the construction work.
Association treasurer Glenys Dawson is optimistic the rest of the money could be raised through grants and fundraising by the end of this year for work to start early next year.
The aim is to get at least $750,000 so construction can start, but possibly more for equipment, furnishings, landscaping and additional sports and recreational facilities in or around the hall.
Redevelopment of the town's memorial hall was first mooted in August 2009 as a major project for Omarama when the association was formed.
Since then, in consultation with users and the community, plans have been prepared to extend it and turn it into a multipurpose facility which will have greater use.
That includes provision for a medical centre, facilities to cater for increased tourism from the Alps 2 Ocean cycleway and retaining the town's play group.
