Progress on Ashburton's new Library & Civic Centre is developing on track, with the project on course for construction to begin at the end of the year.

The Council and its project manager, Logic Group are now in the developed stage of the design process, which is expected to wrap up in April before detailed designs are crafted and put out for tender.

Council Chief Executive, Hamish Riach says while residents will not have seen much happening since the site for the new centre was cleared last year, there has been a lot of work going on behind the scenes.

"The design process and timeline was established at the very start of this project in 2018, and we are still operating on track. The work completed to-date, including the site preparation, has allowed for further technical investigation to inform the detailed design phase. This comprised of geo-technical and contamination surveys."

The Council approved concept designs for the building in August 2019, which included progressing with environmentally sustainable features, such as an artesian well and chilled beam cooling/heating system, and using timber as a key structural element.

Pioneer Hall, a heritage building on the site will also be incorporated into the new build.

Mr Riach continued that with concept plans established, the work is now focusing on how to translate those ideas into more concrete designs.

"It's all about how we make each of the components work to deliver Ashburton's new Library and Civic Centre."

Ashburton District Mayor, Neil Brown is encouraging residents to stay up-to-date with the project by signing up to the Council's free e-newsletter.