The works proposed will include the removal of the brick wall facing onto Keppel Street along with new landscaping, seating and signage.

Bathurst Regional Council general manager David Sherley said the works will be a boost not just for gallery and library users, but the wider community.

“It’s to open up the forecourt of the art gallery and library and to make it a more useable place for the community,” he said.

Mr Sherley said the two sculptures on the grassed area outside the building will be more visible to passers-by after the works.

Bathurst Regional Art Gallery director Richard Perram OAM said the works will be a boost to their part of Keppel Street.

“It really is just part of the process of making Keppel Street look more beautiful,” he said.

“The wall has been there for a number of years and the idea is opening up the sculpture and the gallery to the public.”

Mr Perram said landscaping works will be conducted to beautify the area, and he hopes that people will take advantage of the new surroundings.

“It’s an attempt to beautify and open up and make the place more approachable,” he said.

“I’ve been trying to get this done for quite a number of years.”

Mr Perram said the works will be completed thanks to generous council funding.

Mr Sherley said the works are expected to be completed this financial year.

Funds for the upgrade to the art gallery and library forecourt have been allocated in the 2014/2015 Management Plan.

For further information, contact Bathurst Regional Art Gallery director Richard Perram on 6333 6555 or via email by Tuesday, September 30.

Visit www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au to view the plans for the proposed works.