Mr Secord called on the state government to provide council with some of the funding needed to create  a regional performing arts space for the Southern Highlands.

Under the $3 million plan, Bowral Memorial Hall would have with an improved entrance, retractable raked seating for up to 301 patrons, improved disability access and other features such as a box office and refreshment areas.

Specific funding for regional and rural art galleries, museums and community halls was announced in the June state budget.

Mr Secord recently met with councillor Graham McLaughlin to discuss the plans and to examine ways to support the redevelopment through the Regional Cultural Fund.

“I have spoken to Southern Highlands residents and they are envious that [other areas] are all able to host major touring productions like the hilarious annual Wharf Revues from the Sydney Theatre Company, but they are not able to accommodate such productions,” he said.

 “This project is shovel-ready and the plans are finalised. The Bowral community only needs the government to push to approval button.”