JUST days after refusing to disclose what it paid for two main street buildings, Leeton Shire Council has performed a back flip, bowing to public pressure and releasing the numbers.
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Council has now confirmed it paid $380,000 for the Movie Cafe and Crate Cafe buildings as part of the Roxy Theatre redevelopment project.
The money has come from council's own purse.
Last week council said it would not be releasing what it paid, saying the decision had been made during a confidential, in committee meeting.
However, after much public condemnation, that number has now been released.
It had been estimated council had paid more than $700,000 for the buildings as this was around the original asking price., but the actual cost was well below this number.
"While the original decision was made in a confidential session of council, with the purchase negotiation now finalised council is able to advise the purchase price for the properties known locally as the Movie Café and Crate Café was $380,000," general manager Jackie Kruger said.
"Settlement will be some time away - possibly May.
"Council is pleased to have secured these strategically important properties in Leeton's main street."
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Mrs Kruger said the purchase offered council the opportunity for the Roxy Theatre redevelopment to encroach into the new space.
"(This) means some compliance-related aspects relevant to the Roxy can spill into the rear part of the new area, reducing the impact on the heritage fabric of our beautiful Roxy Theatre," she said.
"Over the next month or two, design options for the Roxy will be considered by council for further consultation with the community of Leeton shire."
Many residents commented on social media last week after council said it would not be disclosing the sale price, saying it should be on the public record as it was ratepayers money being used.
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