Friends of Wingecarribee Animal Shelter [FOWAS] have welcomed Wingecarribee Shire Council's decision to fast track the new Shelter
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Interim Administrator Viv May announced last week that funding for the combined Shelter and Moss Vale SES facility would be brought forward to the 2022/23 financial year.
FOWAS President Deborah Barnes said they were thankful a decision had been made with urgency.
"FOWAS are thrilled with the positive news that the design plans for the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter and SES are going to be fast-tracked," she said.
"It was reassuring to hear Mr May is of the same opinion as FOWAS, volunteers and our community that the current facilities are not fit for purpose for staff, animals or volunteers."
Ms Barnes said whilst happy, FOWAS wouldn't be resting on their laurels and would continue to stay involved as the shelter is built.
"FOWAS had a constructive meeting recently with council management and staff working on the animal shelter project," Ms Barnes said.
"We look forward to our continued involvement with the council as the project progresses.
"Once design and costs are finalised FOWAS will continue to collaborate as a major stakeholder with the council to assist with the fit-out of the animal shelter through currently raised funds and more events to support this objective."
Mr May last week explained the decision to fast-track the facilities, saying any delay wouldn't be in the best interest of the community.
"Both buildings are critical community assets," Mr May said.
"However, in my opinion neither facilities are currently fit for purpose.
"Delaying progress to provide a purpose-built modern animal shelter and SES facility in Moss Vale another year benefits no one."
Construction on the Animal Shelter and SES facility is anticipated to start in the third quarter of 2022.
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